Biography
Who is José Callejón?
Early career and professional beginnings
Born in Motril, Spain, José Callejón developed his skills within the youth system of Real Madrid. He made his professional debut for the reserve team in May 2007. During the 2007 to 2008 season, he appeared in 37 matches for the reserve squad and scored 21 goals.
Following this period, he moved to RCD Espanyol in 2008. He made his La Liga debut on September 20, 2008, appearing as a substitute during a draw against Getafe CF. His first goal for the team came in March 2009 against RCD Mallorca. He became a consistent starter for Espanyol, operating primarily as a winger. In January 2011, he helped secure a 2–1 victory against Sevilla FC by scoring two goals.
Time at Real Madrid and Napoli
In May 2011, José Callejón returned to Real Madrid on a five-year contract. He scored his first official goal for the club in October 2011 during a match against his former side, Espanyol. During that season, he contributed goals in the UEFA Champions League, including two against NK Dinamo Zagreb.
By 2013, he transferred to the Italian club SSC Napoli. He scored in his Serie A debut against Bologna FC 1909 in August 2013. During his tenure with Napoli, he won two Coppa Italia titles and the 2014 Supercoppa Italiana. He marked his 200th appearance for the team in April 2017 with a goal against SS Lazio. By the end of his time in Naples, he had played in 349 competitive matches and scored 82 goals.
Later career and retirement
After leaving Napoli in 2020, José Callejón joined Fiorentina, where he played for a period before returning to his native Spain. In July 2022, he signed a contract with Granada CF. He appeared in 42 games as the team won the second tier title in his first season.
In July 2024, he joined the Primera Federación club Marbella FC at the age of 39. On August 24, he scored the winning goal against his former club, Castilla. On May 19, 2025, he announced his retirement from professional football. His final appearance occurred five days later, where he helped his team win 2–0 against Antequera CF, ensuring they avoided relegation.
Style of play and international experience
Throughout his career, José Callejón was known as a versatile and hardworking right-footed player. Managers deployed him as a forward, winger, attacking midfielder, or supporting striker. His speed, creativity, and technical ability allowed him to provide balance by linking play between forwards and midfielders.
On the international stage, he debuted for the Spain under-21 team in March 2008, scoring shortly after entering the field. In November 2014, he received his first call-up to the senior Spain national team. He made his senior debut on November 15, 2014, in a 3–0 victory against Belarus during the UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying phase.
Birthday and age
José Callejón was born on February 11, 1987, which makes José 39 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. José shares the date with 67 other famous people.
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