The Betis icon, who announced his retirement a few weeks earlier, is on the verge of making history in Spanish football.
How many La Liga matches does Joaquín Sánchez still need to reach Andoni Zubizarreta’s record and become the player with the most appearances in Spain’s top division? That question circulated widely after the Betis winger confirmed he would bow out at the end of the current season. Even as his playing days draw to a close, Joaquín remains a figure of enduring significance in Spanish football and a source of inspiration for fans and aspiring players alike.
The football world is reacting to the retirement news from Joaquín Sánchez
At present, Joaquín ranks as the second-most capped player in La Liga history, trailing only the legendary Andoni Zubizarreta. With 621 league appearances, the Betis stalwart—who has also worn the shirts of Valencia and Málaga in La Liga—has stood alongside other all-time greats such as Raúl García, Raúl González, and Eusebio Sacristán, who registered impressive tallies themselves during storied careers.
The story, however, remains unfinished. If he plays the remaining Betis fixture of the 2022-23 season, Joaquín could push his total to 622 appearances in the league, drawing level with Zubizarreta and extending his legacy as one of the most durable figures in Spanish football history.
Ticket information shows a strong wave of support for the farewell. Prices have ranged from 10 to 20 euros, and current reports indicate that more than 45,000 tickets have already found buyers. The proceeds are designated for the Joaquín Sánchez Foundation, backing efforts in the fight against childhood cancer and offering hope to families across the country.
These developments have sparked reflection on a career defined by longevity, consistency, and a deep connection with supporters. Joaquín has spent years delivering performances that blend technical skill, tactical intelligence, and a visible passion for the game. His decision to retire marks the end of an era for Betis and for La Liga, but it also opens a window into the enduring impact a single player can have on a club, a league, and a community.
As the final weeks of the season unfold, questions about the precise tally of appearances and the historical context of the record will continue to circulate among fans and analysts. Yet the bigger story remains clear: Joaquín’s name is already etched into the annals of Spanish football, and his forthcoming last match will likely serve as a memorable milestone in the long and storied history of La Liga.
In the broader sense, the narrative highlights how a player’s journey can elevate a club’s identity and contribute to the sport’s cultural fabric. The support shown through ticket sales underscores how a single career can galvanize a community, turning a season’s close into a collective celebration and a tribute to resilience, loyalty, and the love of football.