In the world of football, each year brings its share of retirements of emblematic players. The year 2023 was no exception, with several football stars deciding to hang up their boots. Here’s a look at the players who announced their retirement this year.
1. Gianluigi Buffon – Italian goalkeeping legend, Buffon retired at the age of 45 last August. After a career spanning almost three decades, Buffon has won numerous titles with Juventus, including nine Scudetti and a World Cup with the Italian national team in 2006. In an emotional message, Buffon said: “It’s all for me! You gave me everything and I gave you everything. We did it together.”
2. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – Known for her strong character and unrivaled talent, Ibrahimovic decided to end her career in June at the age of 41. During his 22-year career, Ibrahimovic played for many prestigious clubs such as Barca, PSG and Manchester United, scoring over 500 goals in total. In a gracious statement, Ibrahimovic said: “The time has come to say goodbye to football.”
3. Cesc Fabregas – An iconic figure in the Spanish midfield, Fabregas announced his retirement in June at the age of 36. With a 20-year career marked by assists and spectacular goals, Fabregas has captured the hearts of football fans around the world. In a touching message, he said: “It is with great sadness that the time has come to put away my crampons. I will cherish every moment of my journey.”
4. Eden Hazard – The Belgian winger, aged just 32, surprised the football world by announcing his retirement in October. After a prolific career at Chelsea and a less successful stint at Real Madrid, Hazard decided to hang up his boots. He has won numerous titles, including two Champions League and two English Premier League titles. In a passionate statement, Hazard said: “After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I decided to end my career as a professional player. I was able to realize my dream and have fun on many courts at worldwide.”
5. Mesut Ozil – The German midfielder also announced his retirement in March, aged 34. Ozil, considered one of the best playmakers in the world, has played for prestigious clubs such as Real Madrid and Arsenal, winning numerous trophies. He was also a member of the German national team that won the World Cup in 2014. In a heartfelt message, Ozil said: “I have had the privilege of being a professional football player for almost 17 years and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. But recently, after experiencing a few injuries, it has become increasingly clear that it is time to leave the football scene.”
6. Gareth Bale – The Welsh striker, known for his dazzling performances at Real Madrid and Tottenham, has also decided to retire this year. At 33, Bale has scored over 120 goals in his career and won numerous titles with both clubs. Despite some injuries, Bale will be remembered as one of the most talented players of his generation.
These players have left an indelible mark on the world of football, and even if they will no longer set foot on the pitch, their exploits will remain engraved in the memory of football fans around the world.