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Former Brazil international and one of the legends of Bayern Munich, Rafinha on Monday, July 21 announced retirement from professional football. The former Bayern Munich player and one of the most-talked about defenders in the Brazilian lineup, Rafinha during his interview on Sportv, announced his decision while calling time on his career.
Speaking during an interview with the media channel, the 39-year-old, who had been undecided about his future since long now, finally called it quits on Monday, ending his 20-year-long career in in professional football. "Today I officially announce the end of my career as a professional soccer player," Rafinha told while speaking on Sportv. "It's been a wonderful journey and I didn't expect to get to where I am today. It's with a heavy heart that I'm ending something that I've done my whole life. But everything has a beginning and an end, and I have no regrets. I achieved everything that I wanted to in football," he added.
Rafinha breaks down in tears while confirming retirement from professional football
Later, taking to his official Instagram handle, Rafinha bid adieu to the sport he has been associated with many years, writing, “Today the final whistle, in the pitch, is for me. The time has come to officially say goodbye to the lawns, and I do so with a peaceful and grateful heart.” He further continued, “Football gave me everything, it took me to Germany, it made me champion of Champions, Libertadores, Brazilian... he introduced me to amazing people and allowed me to live what has always been my biggest dream,” while extending gratitude towards all the clubs and teams he has represented during his time on the football pitch.
“To every teammate, coach, employee, fan... my thank you so much. I carry with me memories, lessons learned, friendships and a story I will forever proudly tell. Today I end a cycle as a player. But the love of football is eternal. A new chapter in my life begins: Off the fields. �� ⚽” he concluded.
It is to be noted that Rafinha began his career at Cortiba in 2002 before moving to Germany in 2005, where he played from Schalke till 2010. The right back, then played for Genoa for an year, along with playing some time at Bayern Munich and Flamengo before returning to Coritiba in December last year. Although, he left the Brazilian Serie B side in march this year, he had been undecided on his future, futher leading to his retirement.
In his 20-year career in professional football, the Brazilian made 266 competitive appearances for Bayern. He lifted seven Bundesliga titles, four DFB Cups with the side and was a integral member of the 2013 terble winning team, thus becoming a legend of the Bavarians.
