The final whistle is approaching for a beloved figure in Japanese football. FC Gifu has officially announced that their first-choice goalkeeper, Ander Celantes, will hang up his gloves at the end of the current Meiji Yasuda J2/J3 Hyakunen Koso League season. The 36-year-old Spaniard, a stalwart between the posts, will bring the curtain down on a professional career that saw him become a respected figure across multiple Japanese clubs.
Born on October 24, 1989, in Barakaldo, Biscay, in Spain's Basque Country, Celantes' footballing roots run deep in a region passionate about the sport. He began his professional journey in his homeland, notably spending time with the reserve team of the Basque giants, Athletic Bilbao. His career path also included stints with other Spanish clubs like CD Leganés before he made the life-changing decision to move to Japan in 2019.
His first destination in Japan was Avispa Fukuoka. Celantes immediately established himself as the team's undisputed number one goalkeeper. His impact was profound; in his second season, he was instrumental in helping Avispa secure a return to the J1 League after a five-year absence, a significant achievement for the club. This success cemented his reputation as a reliable and high-performing shot-stopper in the Japanese football landscape.
After the 2020 season, Celantes returned to Spain, playing for CD Tenerife and UD Logroñés. However, the pull of Japan proved too strong. He made a comeback in 2023, joining FC Imabari. Over two seasons, he continued to demonstrate his quality and consistency, becoming a key player for the club. His performances earned him a move to FC Gifu ahead of the current special season.
At FC Gifu, Celantes has been the embodiment of reliability. In the unique, condensed Hyakunen Koso League, he has guarded the goal in 14 of the team's 15 matches, firmly establishing himself as the first-choice guardian. His experience and leadership have been invaluable assets for the squad during this transitional period for the league.
The decision to retire was not one he took lightly. In a statement released through the club, Celantes expressed the emotional weight of the moment. "I have decided to put an end to my career as a professional footballer," he said. "I never imagined this day would come, and honestly, it is a moment I did not want to face. However, I believe all things must come to an end."
His farewell message was deeply personal and filled with gratitude for his adopted home. "I am truly grateful to the country of Japan and to everyone I have met here," Celantes remarked. "Thank you for giving me the opportunity to live, play, and spend happy times in Japan. I love everything about it: the culture, the food, the kindness and respect of the people, and the wonderful traditions. Please continue to cherish and protect them."
He also made sure to acknowledge the specific communities that supported him throughout his Japanese journey. "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the staff, teammates, fans, and supporters of Avispa Fukuoka, FC Imabari, and FC Gifu who have supported me until now. Thank you very much," he added. This acknowledgment highlights the deep connections he forged at each club.
Celantes' retirement marks the end of an era for the clubs he served. For FC Gifu, it means the search for a new number one goalkeeper will be a priority in the upcoming off-season. His departure also signifies the loss of a veteran presence whose professionalism and calm demeanor set a standard in the dressing room.
Within the broader context of the Hyakunen Koso League, his exit is a reminder of the transitional nature of this special season. It serves as a final chapter for players whose careers align with this unique period, while simultaneously paving the way for the next generation of talent to emerge in the J-League's evolving structure.
Celantes' career in Japan stands as a testament to the global appeal of the J-League and the fulfilling careers foreign players can build there. From helping Avispa Fukuoka achieve promotion to becoming a mainstay at FC Imabari and FC Gifu, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, consistency, and genuine affection for the country and its football culture.
Based on reporting from サッカーキング.