Argentine soccer is mourning the retirement of Jorge Carranza, a goalkeeper who concluded a 20-year professional career at age 44. Carranza’s final season with Aldosivi saw him not only break the nation’s record for oldest player to appear in a match-previously held by Hugo Orlando Gatti-but also secure the club’s continued presence in Argentina’s top flight. The Córdoba native’s dedication and longevity have made him a beloved figure among fans of multiple clubs, and his departure marks the end of an era for Argentine football.
Argentine soccer has said goodbye to its oldest ever player, Jorge Carranza. The Córdoba-born goalkeeper, with a long and distinguished professional career, concluded his playing days at age 44 with Aldosivi, securing the club’s continued presence in the nation’s top flight.
Carranza, who began his career at Instituto de Córdoba, didn’t just become the oldest player to appear in a match in Argentine history – he surpassed the previous record held by the legendary Hugo Orlando Gatti.
Carranza retired as a regular starter, wearing the captain’s armband, and after making 31 appearances for Aldosivi last season.
A Farewell with the Mission Accomplished
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Aldosivi faced a challenging year in terms of consistency, but Carranza remained the team’s starting goalkeeper for the vast majority of the season, with a brief interruption. He continued to lead as captain until the very end, successfully achieving the primary objective for the Mar del Plata club: staying in the top division.
The veteran goalkeeper chose to express his gratitude on social media Wednesday, calling the moment the “darned moment” every player dreads, but also stating he was “happy and proud” of the career he built.
The Goodbye of a “Fighter”
In his farewell message, Carranza shared heartfelt words about his roots and the fans. He thanked Instituto Atlético Central Córdoba, which he described as his “great love,” for shaping him into a “fighter who survived around twenty years in a game of talented players.”
He also acknowledged his family, friends, coaching staff, and teammates, concluding with a special thank you to Aldosivi: “Thank you, Tiburón. You will occupy a special place in my heart.”
The former player concluded his message saying he will “miss all of this terribly,” but reaffirmed: “I lived it with immense passion, I gave it my all, and I have little to reproach myself for. I was immensely happy playing.”
