London, Nov 16: After 15 years as a professional footballer, West ham and Argentine defender Pablo Zabaleta is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season, according to reports.
The 33-year-old right-back is mostly known for his stint with Premier League defending Champions Manchester City where he won two titles. But last year he left the side after nine long years and joined rivals, West Ham. However, with his Hammers contract set to end next Summer and the club not willing to offer him an extended deal, the defender is said to be thinking of calling time on his illustrious career.
BREAKING:
— Real Talk Manchester City ⚽️ (@RealTalkMCFC) November 12, 2018
Pablo Zabaleta (33) is set to announce his retirement from professional football at end of the season 😢😭💔 [SPORT] pic.twitter.com/MMTiNLJfWi
The defender, following his retirement, is expected to be reuniting with his model wife, who lives in Barcelona. Since 2013, he has been married to Christel Castano and has a home in Espanyol. However, the defender could soon come back to football after a decent break as a coach as he is currently studying his coaching badges.
Pablo Zabaleta, who is taking his coaching badges, when asked if he could manage City:
— City Watch (@City_Watch) November 2, 2018
"Why not? I spent 9 years at City, it was like a home. And my last meeting with Khaldoon, he said the door will be open for me to come back in some role, so we will see. It would be special." pic.twitter.com/2gfi6DXMOi