Football Players Set to Retire at the End of the 2024/25 Season

As the 2024/25 football season draws to a close, the sport is preparing to say goodbye to some of its most iconic players. 

Several football greats have announced their retirement, while others are expected to follow suit soon. Let’s take a look at the stars who are stepping away from the game this season.

Toby Alderweireld

The Belgian defender returned home to finish his career with Royal Antwerp, the club where he began his football journey.

Alderweireld planned to retire at the end of the season on May 25th. Unfortunately, a quadriceps injury forced him to end his season early, cutting short his farewell.

Jan Vertonghen

A close teammate of Alderweireld, Vertonghen also chose to end his playing days in Belgium with Anderlecht, where he spent his final three seasons.

In a touching farewell, his daughter held up the substitution board marking his last appearance on the pitch, highlighting the emotional end to his professional career.

Marcelo

The legendary Brazilian left-back, Marcelo, announced his retirement earlier this year through a heartfelt video on social media.

With five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga championships under his belt, Marcelo leaves behind a legacy as one of Real Madrid’s greatest and most beloved players.

Felipe Melo

Former teammate of Marcelo at Fluminense, Felipe Melo also decided to hang up his boots this season. Although less familiar to European football fans, Melo’s career spanned over two decades since 2001, earning him recognition for his gritty and passionate style of play.

Simon Kjær

One of Denmark’s finest defenders, Simon Kjær will retire after the current season. The 132-time Danish international has played for several top European clubs including Roma, Sevilla, and AC Milan.

He is particularly remembered for his quick thinking and bravery when he saved Christian Eriksen’s life during Euro 2020.

Sergio Ramos

At 39, Sergio Ramos has expressed a desire to continue playing for another year or two, but many speculate this season might mark the end of his illustrious career.

The former Real Madrid and Spain captain is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in football history.

Luis Suárez

Despite being 38, Luis Suárez continues to score goals regularly. He might choose to keep playing beyond this season, but the end of the MLS season could also be the perfect moment for him to retire after an incredible career.

Olivier Giroud

Often underrated, Olivier Giroud’s career achievements speak for themselves. As France’s all-time leading goalscorer, a World Cup winner, and a Champions League champion, Giroud has won league titles across Europe. Should he decide to retire, it will close a remarkable chapter in football history.