Boateng bids farewell to Football
MUNICH: Former Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has officially announced his retirement from professional soccer at the age of 37. The 2014 World Cup winner with Germany confirmed the decision late on Friday through an emotional Instagram video.
Boateng enjoyed a decorated career, earning 76 caps for Germany between 2009 and 2018. His most successful spell came at Bayern Munich, where he played for a decade after joining from Manchester City in 2011. During his time in Bavaria, he lifted nine Bundesliga titles and two Champions League trophies, cementing his status as one of Europe’s top defenders of his era.
“I played for a long time, for big clubs, for my country. I learned, won, lost, and grown through it all,” Boateng reflected. “Football has given me a lot, but now it’s time to move on. Not because I have to, but because I’m ready.”
Beyond Bayern, Boateng also had spells at Olympique Lyonnais, Salernitana, and Hamburg SV, with his final appearance coming at Austrian side LASK Linz before mutually parting ways last month.
Grateful for his journey, Boateng highlighted the support of fans, teammates, and especially his family. His retirement marks the end of a career defined by consistency, resilience, and silverware at both club and international level.(Reuters)
