French World Cup winner Blaise Matuidi announced his retirement on Friday night, December 23, 2022.
The 35-year-old midfielder stated that he hangs the football boots with his head held high.
“Football, I loved you so much. Football, you gave me so much, but the time has come to say stop.
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Matuidi who spent the bulk of his career in Serie A and Ligue 1, noted that he is now joining the fans who for years stood by him.
“I accomplished my dreams as a child, my dreams as a man. It is with a tight throat but with pride that I turn this page today,” Matuidi’s statement read.
Matuidi boasts of combining seven league winners medals across two clubs, and making five appearances for France's 2018 World Cup winning side.
The French footballer also spent two years in MLS for Inter Miami, but had not featured in a competitive game since November 2021.
Matuidi also thanked all the individuals, who stuck with him through thick and thin in his career.
“Thank you to the people who allowed me to experience this extraordinary journey. Thank you to my teammates, who have become my friends, and my brothers.
“Thank you to the coaches, the leaders, those of the high level, and also those of amateur football, the volunteers.
“Thanks to my family who have always supported me. Finally, thank you to you, who have always given me the strength and the extra motivation to go high,” ended Matuidi.
The icing on the cake came in 2018 when the illustrious midfielder help France to lift their second FIFA World Cup title.
Matuidi, who has Angolan roots, has been playing for United States-based side Inter Miami for the past two seasons. His contract with the club was set to expire on Saturday, December 31.