THIAGO ALCANTARA ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM FOOTBALL AGED 33 AFTER LIVERPOOL RELEASE

Thiago Alcantara has announced that he will retire from football aged 33 after being released by Liverpool last season.

The Spanish star has been plagued by injuries in his career, with the former Barcelona man picking up a muscle injury in February that ruled him out for the rest of the season. His contract expired at the end of last season and, after leaving Liverpool, he has now decided to hang up his boots.

In an emotional statement on social media, he said: "I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed it. Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way. See you soon, Thiago."

Liverpool were one of the first clubs to respond and on social media, the club posted: "Congratulations on an incredible career." Thiago was signed by Jurgen Klopp in 2020 from Bayern Munich for £20m and managed 98 appearances across four seasons, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield in that time.

As a player, he had a superb eye for a pass with excellent creative vision in midfield and energetic bursting runs. He won a total of 27 trophies in his storied career and could have achieved even more had injuries not disrupted him.

He started his career with boyhood club Barcelona alongside his brother Rafinha, playing 101 times and lifting nine trophies - including LaLiga and the Champions League - before sealing a move to Bayern Munich in 2013.

Thiago spent five seasons in Germany - with the first two predominantly on the sidelines - but still managed to win the league title, cup and Champions League again before linking up with Jurgen Klopp.

He released an emotional statement on social media after his exit from Anfield was confirmed in May.

"Appreciation and gratitude. They are two words that come to mind on the day I have to say goodbye to all of you, Reds," He wrote. "Thankful, too. Thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of this city, this club and this community," he wrote.

"These past four years have been a time of learning for me and my family. Some wins, some defeats, but without a doubt, a life-changing experience. Thank you, it was an honour. All the best always, Liverpool FC."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2024-07-08T17:48:50Z dg43tfdfdgfd