MADRID, 24 Mar. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The English striker Jermain Defoe has announced this Thursday his retirement from the world of football at 39 years old and after 22 years as a professional, a “really difficult” decision that the footballer makes “at the right time”, the athlete has communicated in his networks social.
“After 22 years in the game, I have decided to retire from professional football. It has been a really difficult decision, and I have discussed it with my family and those closest to me. I made my professional debut at the age of 17 in 1999, and now I feel that It’s the right time to retire. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’ve met some amazing people in football,” Defoe confirmed.
The veteran striker accumulated 496 games in the Premier League in which he scored 162 goals -9th all-time top scorer in the league-, 57 caps and 20 goals for England. After starting his career at Bournemouth, Defoe played for West Ham, Portsmouth, Sunderland, Rangers, Toronto and Tottenham, becoming a benchmark in the competition.
“Soccer will always be in my blood, and it brings me great pride and satisfaction to remember what a blessed career I have had. I am now looking forward to spending quality time with my friends and family as I move forward in this next chapter of my career. Thank you all the fans of every club I’ve played for. I’ll never forget the love I’ve received throughout my career.”
Finally, Defoe thanked the support of his “incredible” teammates, coaches and staff, who played a big role in his entire career.