Soccer – an extreme sport that requires extreme fitness is becoming more and more demanding as we know it. With a tight schedule and rigorous competition, football is becoming a survival of the fittest. While it takes immense emotional turmoil and guts to bid adieu to the beloved game, some still stay attached to the game in some form or the other.
As we near the end of a roller coaster of a year, the next season can witness the departure of some great professional footballers. Here we discuss who they might be and why?
- Zlatan Ibrahimović: The Swedish giant is considered among one of the modern greats. The 39-year-old is still shaking up defenders like he is 20. Featuring for Serie A team AC Milan, he is currently the highest goal scorer in the Italian league. The unfathomable and indomitable spirit of the legend is known to many. In his illustrious career, he has played for some of the biggest European teams – Inter Milan, AC Milan, Manchester United, Barcelona. He has also had a short stint in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the US for LA Galaxy. However, his retirement call can be a longshot as he is in the form of his life right now. But you may never know.
- Gianluigi Buffon: Another legend of the game, the Italian goalkeeper will turn 43 in January next year. He is still the best in the business when it comes to keeping the ball out of the goal. Currently spending most of his time on the bench for the Serie A giants Juventus, Gigi is enjoying his time on the field. And his call to hang up the boots may even prolong as his eternal love for the Old Lady is not unknown.
- Wayne Rooney: One of the English greats, Rooney is still at large on the field. Playing for Derby County FC in the EFL Championship, Rooney is nearing the 600th appearance mark in his career. Rooney is the record goalscorer for both the England national team and Manchester United. He also had a short outing with MLS’s DC United. At 35, it is inevitable that he is nearing his retirement, it is more likely Rooney might follow the steps of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and take up coaching.
