Saúl Pérez Departs UD Añaza, Ending Historic Era for Tenerife Club
Forward Saúl Pérez has announced his departure from UD Añaza, ending a historic four-year tenure that saw the club achieve three consecutive promotions to the Tercera Federación.
Saúl Pérez is leaving Unión Deportiva Añaza, marking the end of a significant chapter for regional football in Tenerife. As reported by El Día, the forward is parting ways with the club following a historic run that saw the Santa Cruz team promoted to the Tercera Federación—the first time a capital-based club has reached this level in over 30 years.
Pérez’s exit is more than just a loss of his 28 goals from last season; he was the face of a project that climbed from the Segunda Regional to the Tercera Federación in just four years. A key figure in the team’s three consecutive promotions, the 35-year-old explained that he is leaving to focus on his family and personal life. He also cited tactical disagreements with coach Lalo Delgado’s style of play. Pérez admitted that the physical and logistical demands of the new division, combined with his desire for a better work-life balance, made this one of the hardest decisions of his career.
The impact of his departure goes beyond the stats. Known affectionately by fans as a "superhero" after his performances at the stadium nicknamed La Bombonera, Pérez shared a deep emotional bond with the local community. He clarified that he is not leaving for another club, but rather stepping away after reflecting on his future on the pitch.
His departure highlights the challenges neighborhood clubs face when moving up to higher divisions. As teams professionalize, the increased time and dedication required can often clash with the personal lives of veteran players. UD Añaza, which recently competed in the Heliodoro Cup final, must now find a way to stay competitive without one of its most iconic players, closing a defining era for football in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.