BAYERN MUNICH midfielder Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will retire from football at the end of the season.
By DAN GIBBS
The 35-year-old has been considering his future in recent months but he will now hang up his boots at the end of the season.
Explaining his decision he told Bayern's website: "It was not an easy decision, but I think it's the right moment.
"I always wanted to stop earlier than too late. I feel good, but I think it's the right time.
"I wanted to finish my career at the highest level and Bayern is the highest level.
"I am very proud and happy to play with Bayern and be a part of this family."
He shared the news on Twitter with a photo of himself and the caption: "Lived it. Loved it. Farewell beautiful game."
Alonso started his career at boyhood club Real Sociedad before his career took off following
The midfielder became a key part of Liverpool's success under Rafa Benitez as he led them to Champions League glory in his first season, netting the equaliser in the Reds' epic comeback against AC Milan to take it to extra-time.
Alonso went on to lift the FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and the Community Shield before leaving for Real Madrid in 2009.
And the trophies didn't stop coming in the Spanish capital as he won the Champions League, La Liga, and two Copa del Reys.
After falling out of favour at the Bernabeu, Alonso moved to German heavyweights Bayern.
With two Bundesliga titles already under his belt, he looks set to make it three in a row with Bayern currently seven points clear at the top.
He could also end his career on a high with a Champions League medal after Bayern progressed to the quarter-finals following their 10-2 aggregate win over Arsenal in midweek.
Alonso was not short of success on the international stage either - winning the World Cup with Spain in 2010, along with triumphs in the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.
Reflecting on his career, Alonso added: "I've really experienced a lot. At Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich.
"These were four great clubs. Also in the national team. I never thought I'd have such a great career, and I hope there'll be something else."
By DAN GIBBS
Explaining his decision he told Bayern's website: "It was not an easy decision, but I think it's the right moment.
"I always wanted to stop earlier than too late. I feel good, but I think it's the right time.
"I wanted to finish my career at the highest level and Bayern is the highest level.
"I am very proud and happy to play with Bayern and be a part of this family."
He shared the news on Twitter with a photo of himself and the caption: "Lived it. Loved it. Farewell beautiful game."
Alonso started his career at boyhood club Real Sociedad before his career took off following
The midfielder became a key part of Liverpool's success under Rafa Benitez as he led them to Champions League glory in his first season, netting the equaliser in the Reds' epic comeback against AC Milan to take it to extra-time.
Alonso went on to lift the FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and the Community Shield before leaving for Real Madrid in 2009.
And the trophies didn't stop coming in the Spanish capital as he won the Champions League, La Liga, and two Copa del Reys.
After falling out of favour at the Bernabeu, Alonso moved to German heavyweights Bayern.
With two Bundesliga titles already under his belt, he looks set to make it three in a row with Bayern currently seven points clear at the top.
He could also end his career on a high with a Champions League medal after Bayern progressed to the quarter-finals following their 10-2 aggregate win over Arsenal in midweek.
Alonso was not short of success on the international stage either - winning the World Cup with Spain in 2010, along with triumphs in the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.
Reflecting on his career, Alonso added: "I've really experienced a lot. At Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich.
"These were four great clubs. Also in the national team. I never thought I'd have such a great career, and I hope there'll be something else."
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