The year 2023 bid farewell to an era in football as some of the sport’s most iconic figures drew the curtains on incredible careers. As the final whistle blew on their careers, the footballing world paused to commemorate the extraordinary contributions, defining moments, and lasting legacies these individuals bestowed upon the sport. Amidst speculation and heartfelt farewells, the retirement announcements of these players reverberated across stadiums, social media, and beyond, evoking emotions of nostalgia and gratitude among fans who witnessed their magic on the pitch.
In this retrospective journey, we delve into the departures of these footballing luminaries, celebrating their remarkable achievements, reminiscing about their memorable performances, and reflecting on the impact they’ve had on the sport and its passionate followers. From iconic goals to unforgettable matches and the unwavering devotion they inspired, the retirements of these players mark the end of an era, leaving a void that will be felt across the footballing landscape.
7. Gianluigi Buffon
Revered as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, Buffon concluded his career in 2023, marking the end of an era for the legendary shot-stopper. Fondly known as Gigi, Buffon’s journey through football spanned decades, characterised by remarkable skill, unwavering dedication, and a profound impact on the game.
Primarily associated with Juventus, Buffon’s tenure at the Italian club established him as a cornerstone of their success. Gigi amassed a treasure trove of accolades, including multiple Serie A titles, Coppa Italia triumphs, and a World Cup victory with the Italian national team in 2006. His consistency, remarkable saves in crucial moments, and a career-long commitment to excellence solidified his status as an icon of the sport.
After departing Juventus in 2018, Buffon continued to showcase his exceptional goalkeeping skills at Paris Saint-Germain before making an emotional return to his beloved club, Parma, where it all began.
Official: Gianluigi Buffon announced his retirement from football! 💔
— 365Scores (@365Scores) August 2, 2023
Farewell, legend!#Buffon #365Scores pic.twitter.com/jhpjESdH18
6. David Silva
This little Spanish midfield magician had an incredible career marked by his incredible technical ability and vision on the pitch. He spent the majority of his career at Manchester City, where he became an integral part of the club’s success under manager Pep Guardiola. Silva’s creativity, precise passing, and intelligent movement played a pivotal role in City’s multiple Premier League titles, domestic cup victories, and the club’s ascent to the top of English football. Before moving to Manchester City, Silva showcased his talents at Valencia in La Liga. His graceful style of play and consistency made him a fan favourite both at club and international levels, representing Spain in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups. Unfortunately for him, Silva had to hang up his boots after suffering a torn ACL during the current pre-season.
5. Cesc Fabregas
Cesc Fàbregas began his career at FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy before later moving to Arsenal in the Premier League, where he flourished as a creative force in midfield, spending eight years bossing the Prem. Fàbregas then made a return to Barcelona, joining Pep Guardiola and Lionel Messi before moving to Chelsea, where he continued to showcase his playmaking abilities, contributing to the club’s success in the Premier League and European competitions. His intelligent reading of the game and ability to dictate play from midfield made him a crucial asset for both club and country, representing Spain in multiple international tournaments. He is a World Cup winner, captain of Spain and now the manager of Como in Italy. What a class act.
4. Mesut Ozil
“WE’VE GOT OZIL, MESUT OZIL, I JUST DON’T THINK YOU UNDERSTAND”, yelled the Arsenal faithful each week in celebration of their tricky number ten. Özil began his career at Schalke 04 before moving to Werder Bremen and subsequently making a high-profile transfer to Real Madrid following an exceptional campaign at the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 with Germany. His time at Real Madrid showcased his extraordinary creativity, leading to assists and memorable moments. His relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo was almost telepathic and CR7 was publically aggrieved that Madrid moved him on. Özil then joined Arsenal in the Premier League, where he continued to dazzle with his technical ability and creativity. Known for his vision and ability to create scoring opportunities, he became a key player for both club and country, representing Germany in multiple FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships. He’s now enjoying himself in his retirement, recently poking fun at multiple Oscar-winning actor Leonardo Di Caprio on Twitter for not knowing what Arsenal was.
Arsenal Football Club is older than 25 years … so why should he know? 🫣 #YaGunnersYa ❤ https://t.co/hSBnt69NO2
— Mesut Özil (@M10) December 16, 2023
3. Eden Hazard
Eden Hazard was renowned for his electrifying dribbling skills and attacking flair. He rose to prominence during his time at Lille OSC in Ligue 1, earning recognition as one of Europe’s most promising talents. He later joined Chelsea in the Premier League, where he became a pivotal figure in the club’s success, contributing significantly to their Premier League titles and domestic cup triumphs. Hazard’s exceptional close control, speed, and ability to change games made him arguably the best player in the league. He was unplayable, a defender’s nightmare. Ask Premier League full-backs who their trickiest or toughest opponent was and don’t be surprised when they answer with Eden. In 2019, he made a high-profile move to Real Madrid, aiming to continue his success in La Liga. However, injuries affected his time at Madrid, limiting his impact on the pitch despite flashes of brilliance. Hazard’s talent was evident both at club and international levels, representing Belgium in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships. Despite having big-money offers from Saudi teams, Hazard decided it was time to say goodbye a few months ago.
2. Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale has been waiting for this one for a while. He couldn’t wait to get off the pitch and get onto the lynx. ‘Wales, Golf, Madrid, in that order’ was a flag that Bale flexed a couple of years ago and it was no word of a lie. But you know what, Bale deserves it. What a talented player he was.
A skinny, raw left-back at Southampton rose up the ranks to become a polished, refined and electric right-winger at Tottenham. The Premier League had missed seeing a winger cut in and shoot following the departure of Ronaldo and Bale was the one who filled the void. He was sensational. Winning the PFA Player of the Year in 2012/13, he followed in Ronaldo’s footsteps and signed for Real Madrid, also for a world record transfer fee. He started life in Madrid incredibly well, scoring 22 goals in his first season and winning the Champions League. He never fully settled in the Spanish capital, however, and endured a few difficult years.
Despite all that, Bale scored possibly the greatest Champions League goal of all time when in the final against Liverpool, game level, he rose high with his back to the goal and scored an exquisite bicycle kick which left fans around the world stunned. His talent never left him and after 258 games with Los Blancos, 106 goals and four Champions Leagues, he took his talents to the States with LAFC. A brief stint there took him to his retirement this year. Thank you, Gareth!
1. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Father Time catches up with everyone in the end, even Zlatan Ibrahimovic. It is safe to say that Ibra gave him a good battle though. At 41 years old, Zlatan decided that time was up and after becoming the oldest goalscorer in Serie A history, he decided to hang up his boots.
What a career he had. 4x UEFA Team of the Year appearances, 573 goals, 14 league trophies, 34 trophies overall, and possibly the greatest goal catalogue ever seen. He also is Sweden’s top scorer, the only player to score on his Premier League, Serie A, Ligue 1, La Liga and Champions League debut, the only player to score 50 goals for both Inter and AC Milan, the highest scorer in a single league season in Ligue 1, and in Zlatan fashion, the scorer of the 25,000th goal in the Premier League.
The footballing world will miss Zlatan’s flair, arrogance, interviews, class and skill. Thank you, Zlatan.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
