Xabi Alonso to retire from football at the end of the season

Xabi Alonso has announced he will retire from playing at the end of the season.

Reports earlier this year suggested Alonso was going to hang up his boots when his Bayern Munich contract runs out in the summer, and the 35-year-old midfielder has now confirmed that will be the case.

Alongside a picture of him waving, Alonso wrote on his Twitter account: “Lived it. Loved it. Farewell beautiful game.”

Alonso’s impending retirement was also confirmed by Bayern. The former Spain international told the club’s official website: “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.

“I’ve experienced so much as a player with Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. They are all great clubs. And of course, with the Spanish national team. I never would’ve thought I’d have such a great career, and I hope there’s more to come before it ends.”