There are certain players who transcend the game. Not just because of their talent, but because of their loyalty, humility, and the way they carry themselves. For Adelaide United, that player is Isaías.
This Good Friday at Coopers Stadium, the Spaniard is poised to etch his name in the record books — and in our hearts — once again. If he takes to the field against Wellington Phoenix, Isaías will officially become the most capped player in Adelaide United history, surpassing the legendary Eugene Galekovic.
“It’s a special occasion,” Isaías said in the lead-up to the milestone. “Hopefully it can happen tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to it. This means a lot — not just to me, but to my family. We’ve made a lot of sacrifices and put in a lot of effort behind every one of those games. So yes, it’s really special.”
Signed back in 2013, Isaías originally came for what he thought would be a short-term overseas stint. Now, more than a decade later, he’s become the very heart of the Club.
“There was no chance I expected this,” he laughed. “When I first arrived, I only signed a two-year deal. It was just meant to be an experience — to play overseas, to live a new culture, learn a new language. I never imagined I’d be here this long, let alone break the record.”
The turning point? “After three or four years, it just felt like home. I remember when we were extending my contract, I spoke to my wife and she said, ‘We’re really happy here. We love it. Why not stay as long as possible?’”
Now 38, Isaías continues to be a mainstay in midfield — still training hard, still giving everything. “I’m trying my best to hold up,” he smiled. “Most of the time, I feel fit enough to be out there. I train hard because I want to help the team. That’s what I always try to do.”
And while Friday will be about celebrating a legend, Isaías is quick to bring it back to the bigger picture.
“It’s a special moment for me, yes — but the most important thing is three points. That’s the best way to celebrate. Especially in the situation we’re in right now, every game counts.”
As for what comes next, Isaías says he’ll sit down with the Club at season’s end. “We’ve had conversations in the past — I’d love to stay, and I know the Club would love to keep me, but we’ll have to work out what’s best for everyone. For now, the focus is on these next three games.”
And once he does hang up the boots? “I’d love to try coaching,” he said. “Since early in my career, I’ve been working on my licences and observing how coaches do things. I don’t know if I’ll enjoy it or if I’ll be good enough, but it’s definitely something I want to explore.”
Ask him for his favourite moment in red, and the answer comes quickly: “There’s probably only one. Adelaide Oval. Winning that Grand Final. But every time we’ve won a trophy — for the fans, for the Club, for the city — those are moments I’ll always carry with me.”
Now, as Isa prepares to take the field for the 286th time in red, he does so with a smile on his face, a proud legacy behind him, and a crowd ready to salute him.
So don’t miss it.
Be there at Coopers. Witness history. And give one of the greatest ever to wear the shirt the reception he deserves.
