Former Barcelona star Rafinha Alcantara has announced his retirement from football at the grand old age of 32.
The Brazilian has posted an emotional message on social media to confirm the news and confirmed he is finally hanging up his boots.
He said in a video message: “After some time away from the pitch and following a long recovery, the time has come to make something important public. I have made the decision to retire. A little over a year ago, I suffered a knee injury which, unfortunately, prevents me from returning to compete at the highest level. It was hard to accept that I couldn’t continue. Thank you to my family for always being there, to everyone for the love and support. Thank you, football, for making me who I am. Goodbye.”
Rafinha started off at Barcelona and spent over a decade at the club before moving on to PSG after a series of loan spells. He went on to play for Real Sociedad and Al-Arabi but has now decided to call it quits.
Barcelona have sent a message to Rafinha after his announcement, posting on XI: “Thank you for your football and for defending these colors with pride and commitment. Good luck in this new stage, Rafinha.”
Thank you and good luck, Rafinha!
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