Ex-Manchester City and Argentina defender, Pablo Zabaleta confirms retirement from football at 35

 Former Manchester City and West Ham defender, Pablo Zabaleta has announced his retirement from football at the age of 35.

 

The Argentine right-back, who started his at San Lorenzo in his homeland joined Manchester City from Espanyol for £6.5m in 2008 and went on to become a club legend, playing 333 games and winning two Premier League titles. He also lifted the FA Cup and two League Cups with the club.

After nine seasons at City, Zabaleta moved to West Ham in 2017 where he made 80 appearances before leaving at the end of his contract earlier this summer.

 

Zabaleta, who won 58 caps for his country, said: "After 18 years as a professional footballer, I took the decision to retire from playing football.

 

'These have been wonderful years that gave me the opportunity to enjoy unique and unforgettable moments.

 

'Forever I will thank all the people that shared the journey with me; clubs, teammates, coaches and in particular my family and all my friends.

 

'With a lot of emotions I leave behind one of the best stages of my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.'