Former Manchester United skipper Antonio Valencia has announced his retirement from football aged 35.
The Ecuadorian international became an Old Trafford hero during his 10-year spell with the club.
He made over 330 appearances in all competitions, winning two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and the Europa League.
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He also won two League Cups in 2010 and 2017, as well as playing in one of Sir Alex Ferguson‘s best Premier League sides.
Valencia sent a heartfelt message to Man Utd fans on social media: “At the age of 14 as a child, I left my family, my village and my first team to travel to the capital of my country. I travelled with a lot of nostalgia, but full of hope.
“A few years later, I was able to travel to Europe, something I had never dreamed of. I played in Spain and then came to my second home, England.
“Wigan was a unique experience, and then God gave me the opportunity to join Manchester United. I will never forget everything I experienced at Old Trafford. I will never forget every goal, every trophy and the wonderful fans.
“I did not think this moment would come so soon, but my body has asked me to make this decision. I am announcing my retirement from football.
“I want to thank everyone who has been part of my career and my life, God in the first place for always blessing me; Zoila and my daughter Domenik, who have been my pillars; my parents for giving me so much.
“To fans of all the countries where I have played, I always tried to give my best. Thank you for your affection and support.”
The winger-turned-right-back left Man Utd in July 2019 and joined Ecuadorian outfit LDU Quito.
Paying tribute to his former team-mate, Rio Ferdinand tweeted: “What a career, what a player, what a man….One of the most humble men I know. Painfully shy but always made me smile with how shy he was!
“What a professional too, always doing extra training in the gym (so he could look like me).
“Pleasure to play with you. Enjoy retirement Tonio.”
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