Former Spain forward Víctor Machín, known as Vitolo, has announced his retirement from professional football after years plagued by injuries. The Gran Canaria native made the emotional reveal during the podcast ‘Actitud Constante,’ acknowledging he hasn’t played competitively since April 15, 2023. “People will have understood it because I haven’t set foot on a football pitch for two years,” he shared, reflecting on the toll his physical struggles have taken on his career.
Vitolo, highly regarded for his contributions during his time at Sevilla FC, where he played 203 matches and helped the team secure three consecutive UEFA Europa League titles from 2014 to 2016, had initially seen his transfer to Atlético Madrid as the pinnacle of his career. The move, which cost Atlético €35.5 million, came with high expectations but was marred by injuries and inconsistency on the field. “After three surgeries, it was nine or ten months to recover from each one,” he stated, shedding light on his extensive rehabilitation process.
His last official match unfolded dramatically as he got sent off just five minutes after his entry, contributing to the sadness surrounding his exit from professional play. “I renounced everything... I didn’t want to play anymore,” he recalled, citing his mental and physical distress stemming from chronic injuries.
Vitolo’s decision to retire is emblematic of the struggles many athletes face when physical limitations disrupt their careers. Following his departure from Atlético Madrid last summer, he pondered his future. “I went through such difficult times with my injuries, I said I wanted to disappear from everything and focus on my family,” he reflected on the emotional toll of his career.
His career, which also included stints at Getafe and two separate terms at UD Las Palmas, was marked by both moments of brilliance and controversy. Many fans still recall the frustration from Vitolo’s controversial exit from Sevilla, which sparked legal disputes over breach of contract. Despite the disagreements, his time at the club is fondly remembered. He built cherished memories with teammates, particularly with the late José Antonio Reyes, who was instrumental during his rise.
“I experienced great times and I was happy at Sevilla. I was lucky to play with great friends and legends,” Vitolo added, reinforcing his connection to the fans and the legacy he leaves behind.
Although his time at Atlético Madrid did not meet expectations—he participated in 101 matches yet often struggled to recapture his form—Vitolo appreciated the chance to play under Diego Simeone. “More bad years than good,” he mentioned, underscoring the impact of continuous setbacks on his career. His final years saw him playing intermittently due to recurring injuries, leaving fans yearning for the mercurial talent he had once been.
Vitolo concluded his retirement announcement with uncertainty about the future, contemplating new paths away from the pitch. “Right now, I don’t know what I’ll do next. I’m training, playing, and having fun,” he remarked, demonstrating his intent to embrace this new chapter of freedom.
Despite the myriad obstacles throughout his time as professional, Vitolo exits with a prestigious trophy cabinet, including four UEFA Europa League titles and recognition for his skill and flair on the field. His dedication to the game and the love of football remain evident as he leaves his boots behind, transitioning from star player to retired athlete with poised grace.
With his retirement, football bids farewell to another talented player whose charisma and spirited gameplay touched so many fans, even as he struggles with personal challenges behind the scenes. Vitolo's experiences serve as both cautionary tales and inspirational stories for upcoming athletes facing their own battles with adversity.
