José Callejón, Spanish footballer

Who is José María Callejón?

José María Callejón Bueno (Spanish pronunciation: [xoˈse kaʎeˈxon]; born on 11 February 1987) is a distinguished Spanish professional footballer widely recognized for his versatility and prolific contributions as a forward or winger. Currently, he lends his expertise to Serie A club Fiorentina, bringing a wealth of experience from top-tier European leagues.

Early Career and Breakthrough at Espanyol

Callejón's professional journey began within the prestigious youth ranks of Real Madrid, often referred to as "La Fábrica." After progressing through their reserve teams, Real Madrid Castilla, he sought regular first-team football to further his development. This led to a pivotal move to fellow La Liga club Espanyol in 2008.

It was at Espanyol where Callejón truly "made a name for himself." Over three successful seasons (2008-2011), he established himself as a prominent figure in Spanish football. His consistent performances, characterized by relentless work rate, intelligent movement off the ball, and an eye for goal, earned him over 100 competitive appearances for the Barcelona-based club. This period showcased his adaptability and cemented his reputation as a reliable and effective attacking player in Spain's top flight.

Return to Real Madrid

His impressive tenure with Espanyol did not go unnoticed by his boyhood club. In 2011, Callejón returned to Real Madrid, joining the star-studded squad under manager José Mourinho. During his two-year spell (2011-2013), he embraced a crucial role as a versatile squad player, often deployed as an impact substitute or to provide cover across the attacking positions. While competing for places with world-class talent, Callejón consistently demonstrated his professionalism and ability to contribute, making valuable appearances in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, and notably scoring important goals for the club.

The Flourishing Napoli Years: A Defining Chapter

In 2013, Callejón embarked on a new adventure, joining Italian Serie A club Napoli. This move proved to be a defining chapter in his career, transforming him into one of the most consistent and highly-regarded wingers in Italian football. Under the guidance of manager Rafael Benítez, Callejón quickly became an indispensable component of Napoli's attacking setup, forming a formidable partnership with other key players.

His tenure at Napoli was marked by significant team success and remarkable individual consistency. He became known for his exceptional tactical awareness, constant threat cutting in from the right flank, and his consistent goal-scoring and assist contributions. Over seven seasons, Callejón amassed an impressive 349 competitive matches for the Neapolitan club, scoring 82 goals, making him one of the club's all-time top scorers in the modern era.

During his time in Naples, Callejón played a pivotal role in securing two prestigious domestic trophies:

His dedication, performance longevity, and crucial contributions earned him immense respect and adoration from the Napoli faithful, solidifying his status as a club legend.

International Recognition with Spain

Callejón's consistent performances at club level also garnered international recognition. Having represented Spain at the under-21 level, he earned his senior debut for the Spain national team in 2014. This call-up was a testament to his sustained quality and impact in European club football, allowing him to represent his nation on the global stage, showcasing his talent alongside some of Spain's most esteemed players.

Current Club: ACF Fiorentina

Following his illustrious spell at Napoli, José María Callejón continued his career in Serie A, joining ACF Fiorentina in 2020. At Fiorentina, he continues to bring his vast experience, tactical intelligence, and attacking prowess to the team, contributing to their efforts in the competitive Italian top flight. His presence adds valuable depth and leadership to the squad, further cementing his legacy as a respected figure in Italian football.

Frequently Asked Questions about José María Callejón

What is José María Callejón's primary playing position?
Callejón is primarily known for playing as a forward or a winger. His versatility allows him to operate effectively on either flank, often cutting in from the right wing to create scoring opportunities or take shots himself. He has also occasionally been deployed as a secondary striker.
Which major trophies did Callejón win with Napoli?
With Napoli, José María Callejón won two Coppa Italia titles (2013–14, 2019–20) and one Supercoppa Italiana (2014). These domestic cup victories highlight a successful period in the club's history.
Did Callejón play for Real Madrid's senior team?
Yes, after starting his career in Real Madrid's youth system and then playing for Espanyol, José María Callejón returned to Real Madrid in 2011 and played for their senior team for two seasons until 2013, making appearances in La Liga and the Champions League.