Ex-Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani announces his retirement

Alberto Aquilani announced his retirement from professional football today, after spending the past season without a club.

The 34-year-old posted on Instagram that it was time for him to hang his boots up and take up a new challenge.

“After a period of reflection, I think the time has come to hang up my boots. I took the time to make my decision and despite the many proposals from other teams, I think it’s time to retire.

“Looking back, I see a young boy who was playing with Spes Montesacro who received the call from Rome, who then went on to play on some of the biggest fields Europe, playing with some of the strongest players in the world, to put on the national team shirt and participate in the three most important competitions in the world.

“That kid realised his dream. I thank all the people who have contributed to my growth over the years, from Coaches to professionals, through teammates. I thank the fans, who have been there, ALWAYS.”.

The midfielder was released from his contract with La Liga side Las Palmas last summer after their relegation and had been without a club since then.

Aquilani started his career with Roma before moving to Liverpool in 2009 for €20m and also played for Milan, Fiorentina, Sporting CP, Pescara and Sassuolo.

The midfielder was blighted by injuries during his career, but still managed to score five times in 38 games for the Italian national team.