Alex MacQuoid
At 31, Gerard Deulofeu is facing the toughest match of his life — not on the pitch, but against medicine and biology. The Spanish winger has been sidelined since November 2022 with severe cartilage damage in his right knee, yet he refuses to give up on a return for Udinese.
“I Want to Make History”
In an interview with Flashscore, the former Barcelona, Everton, Milan, Sevilla, and Watford star revealed his determination to defy the odds.
“It’s going to be very difficult, but I want to make history. I think I can be the player who has been out for the longest time and still managed to come back. That would be a magnificent and beautiful record for me.”
Deulofeu admitted that his biggest motivation is his family:
“My children were born knowing me as a footballer. Now they ask me when I’ll play again — that breaks my heart, but also pushes me to fight.”
The Injury: Fighting Biology
Deulofeu’s battle with chondropathy, a severe cartilage condition, has been grueling. At times, the injury has left him unable to walk without bone grinding against bone.
“It’s more than an injury — it’s closer to a permanent disability. I’m fighting against biology and also against my own mind.”
He added that recent scans show signs of cartilage healing, allowing him to train more regularly:
“Before, I could work one day and had to stop for two. Now, my knee reacts better, which is a positive sign.”
Psychological Battle
The road has been as much mental as physical. Deulofeu admits he has considered quitting countless times, but credits his support system at Udinese and mental health specialists for keeping him strong.
“I can’t count the times I thought of giving up… but my team, my family, and the experts who support me have made me stronger. Mine is a miracle, and I’ll fight until the very last moment.”
Santi Cazorla: An Example of Hope
Deulofeu draws inspiration from Santi Cazorla, who underwent 11 surgeries and returned to professional football after nearly being forced to retire. Now 40, Cazorla is still playing in LaLiga with Real Oviedo.
“Santi is an example for me. Only when you live through something similar can you understand what it means to lose your passion. He’s a legend, and his story gives me hope.”
Final Word
For Deulofeu, the comeback is about more than football. It’s about resilience, family, and leaving a legacy of inspiration.
“Mine is a miracle, and I’m going to try until the last moment.”