LIVERPOOL AND REAL Madrid legend Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will retire from football in the summer.

The 35-year-old Bayern Munich star enjoyed a decorated career at club and international level. His trophy haul includes two Champions League trophies, the FA Cup, La Liga, two Copa del Reys, two Bundesligas, two European Championships and the World Cup.

Alonso, who first confirmed the news on Twitter, said in a statement: “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,” he told FC Bayern.tv live.

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.”

“FC Bayern would like to thank a great player and person for representing FC Bayern to such a high standard both on and off the pitch. Xabi Alonso is one of the greats of world football. He has won everything there is to win during his career. He’s a thoroughly remarkable person, and a gentleman of the game,” Bayern’s chief executive officer Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said.

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,” the player added.

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