Ángel Mateos González, 70, is set to become Spain’s oldest competitive player after being named in CD Colunga squad for a historic appearance

Former miner-turned-goalkeeper Ángel Mateos González has been named in the CD Colunga squad for their Tercera Federación fixture against Praviano, with the 70-year-old on course to become the oldest player ever to feature in an official competitive match in Spain.

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The Spanish club confirmed the inclusion of Ángel Mateos González on Wednesday, describing the decision as a tribute to his long-standing service to football rather than an attempt to set a record.

“This is neither a record nor an oddity. It is a tribute,” the club stated, praising his passion, consistency and lifelong commitment to the sport.

If he takes to the pitch, Ángel Mateos González will surpass previous age records in Spanish competitive football, marking a rare milestone in the modern game.

Mateos originally retired from competitive football at the age of 43 but has remained actively involved in the sport through veteran football and local amateur teams, including Hunosa and Turón veterans.

He has also contributed to Colunga’s coaching setup this season, working closely with the club’s goalkeepers and offering experience-based guidance to younger players.

Despite his age, the veteran insists he still feels physically capable of playing if required, maintaining that he continues to feature regularly in non-professional matches.

Ángel Mateos González also reflected on how football has evolved over the decades, noting the contrast between rough early playing conditions and today’s modern facilities.

Colunga currently sit 10th in their 18-team division, with no threat of relegation and no promotion pressure, making Mateos’ potential appearance largely symbolic and celebratory in nature.

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The anticipated moment has already drawn attention across Spanish lower-league football, with many viewing it as a powerful gesture celebrating longevity, passion and dedication to the game.