“I have decided to stop playing professional football,” the Barça attacker announced Wednesday.
‘Kun’ Aguero scored more than 427 goals for club and country during his 18-year career, having played for Independiente, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City and FC Barcelona, and being capped no less than 101 times for Argentina.
Pep Guardiola compared Sergio Aguero to legends Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi after the former Manchester City striker announced his retirement at the age of 33 due to a heart condition. “Maradona conquered Italy, Messi did it in Spain and Aguero has done it in England, his numbers speak for themselves,” Guardiola told ESPN.
Aguero played a vital role in Argentina’s 2021 Copa America success, their first major international triumph in 28 years, and Lionel Messi paid tribute to the striker via Instagram. “The truth now is it hurts a lot to see how you have to stop doing what you love the most because of what happened to you,” Messi said.
“Sergio, my friend. I am sad to see you retire today but I am also excited for your future. You have so much to offer the game. We shared many great times and I feel blessed to have been your teammate. You will go down as one of the greatest. Playing alongside you was an honour!” his former City team-mate Yaya Toure posted on Twitter.
“An extraordinary striker has retired from the game, but also a great team mate, friend and unique personality. Thanks and respect to an authentic City phenomenon. I wish you nothing but the best, legend,” Kompany said.
“One of the best strikers ever! Want to wish you all the best for the future legend. See you soon,” current City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne tweeted.
“I know it was a tough decision you’ve had to make but you walk away like a legend. It has been an honour for me to share so many moments together on and off the pitch, you are my partner in crime,” David Silva said.
Other Premier League celebs, as well as rivals proved keen on expressing their gratitude to the Man City legend who scored famous 54/1 winner. Are you unfamiliar with bookies slang? Learn about betting terms on BettingInstitute.co.uk.
“Happy retirement legend. What an incredible player. Stay well,” Newcastle and England legend Alan Shearer tweeted.
Tottenham wrote: “Congratulations on a remarkable career, Sergio.”
“One of the greatest @premierleague players EVER. LEGEND,” former Chelsea and England defender John Terry wrote on Twitter.
Barça’s arch-rivals Real Madrid tweeted: “It was an honour to compete against a player like you, @aguerosergiokun, one of the best players in the world. Best of luck to you and your family.”
“Congratulations Kun for your amazing career. We have enjoyed so much with your skills, goals and creativity, but also with your kindness and love for those around you. All the best for whatever comes next and be well mate,” Aguero’s former colleague from his Atletico Madrid days, Luis Garcia, said.
The Argentina striker ended his professional career with 17 trophies, 15 of which came during his stay at Manchester City.
Written by Alexandru Ion.
