Xabi Alonso officially announces he will retire at the end of the season

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Bengaluru, March 9: Spanish midfield maestro and Bayern Munich star Xabi Alonso has confirmed himself that he will retire from football at the end of this season.

The Spaniard shared the news on several social media platforms making it clear that he will hand his boots after an 18-year long career.

The midfielder who started his senior career at Real Sociedad B team in 1999 played for the club until 2004. He then moved to Liverpool in 2004 and stayed their 5 seasons.

He was a part of the famous Champions League winning Liverpool side who created the 'Miracle of Istanbul' in 2004/05 season.

In 2009, he moved to Real Madrid and spend 5 more seasons before moving to Bayern Munich. The midfielder will end his career at the German side.

Xabi Alonso's tweet from his official handle read:

Xabi Alonso is by far one of the most decorated players in the history of the sport who has won league in each and every country he has played and has two Champions League medals under his belt.

In international football, he has won two Euro Cups in 2008 and 2012 with Spain and won the FIFA World Cup in 2010.

Speaking about his retirement, Alonso told Sky Sports: "It wasn't an easy decision to make, but I believe it's the right time.

"I always thought it would be better to quit sooner rather than later. I still feel good, but I believe this is the right moment.

"I wanted to end my career still at the highest level, and Bayern is the highest level. I'm incredibly proud and happy to play for FC Bayern and to be a part of this family."

OneIndia News