Antonio Pérez's brilliant performance in the Futsal Eurocup continues to garner recognition. The Jaén-born defender was once again honored in his hometown during the match on day 31 of Group IV of Segunda Federación, which pitted Real Jaén against La Unión Atlético. The Barça player, a key figure in Spain's title victory in Slovenia, performed the honorary kick-off and was celebrated by the local club at the Nuevo Estadio Municipal de La Victoria.
This recognition follows a previous one from the Jaén City Council weeks ago, demonstrating the deep affection the people and sports community of Jaén have for Pérez. The international player was a decisive force in the Eurocup, notably scoring a hat-trick in the final against Portugal (5-3). This achievement allowed him to become the tournament's top scorer with seven goals, be included in the Best Five, and be named the Most Valuable Player of the championship.
During the ceremony, Antonio Pérez received a commemorative white club jersey from Sebastián Moya, president of Real Jaén, and Fran Anera, general director of the entity. The jersey featured the number 6, which he usually wears for the Spanish national team and his club, along with his name and the inscription "MVP Europa", in clear tribute to his accomplishment.
“"It is a great honor to receive this tribute at home, with my people. There is nothing more special than feeling the affection of your homeland."
The player also emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving the continental title. "This championship is the result of the effort of the entire team. We have worked very hard to get here, and beating a team like Portugal in the final is a huge merit," he explained. Regarding his individual performance, he downplayed his goal-scoring figures, stating: "The goals are there, but the important thing is the group. Without my teammates, it would not have been possible to score or win the best player award."
Absent from Spain's squad for the friendly matches against Finland, Antonio Pérez took advantage of the First Division break to visit his family in Jaén and attend the tribute. Now, the player is focused on the upcoming challenges with Barça: the Copa del Rey and the league. In the Copa del Rey Final Four, the Catalan team will once again face Jaén Paraíso Interior FS, a familiar opponent from the Copa de España final.
“"It's time to switch gears and focus on what's next. We want to fight for the League and the Copa del Rey, and we are going to give everything to achieve it."
