The former Netherlands international initially hung up his boots in 2019 before reversing the decision to return to his first club Groningen last season.
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Netherlands legend Arjen Robben has announced his retirement from the game for the second time. Robben who is currently aged 37, originally hung up his boots after leaving Bayern Munich in 2019. The 37-year-old represented Chelsea, Real Madrid and the German side in club football over the years. Robben decided to re-sign with boyhood club Groningen in 2020, but his game-time was limited to just seven appearances for the club due to injury. This has encouraged the Netherlands footballer to call time on his career, as stated on the social media platform Twitter.
“I have decided to stop my active football career. Announced a year ago, I am making my comeback as a player of FC Groningen. I started this adventure with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I just had to deal with physical setbacks pretty quickly, so I couldn’t play for a long time. After a long road of ups and downs, I finally managed to play the last games of the season,” said Robben.
“Looking back on the past season, I have to come to the honest conclusion that the number of match minutes is disappointing. I knew in advance that this could happen, but I took up the challenge and gave everything to make it succeed. And I am not alone, everyone in the club and in my immediate environment has supported me at all times. The warm reactions and statements of support from all football fans have certainly affected me. I am very grateful to everyone for this. After the last game, I said I would take the time to make a considerate decision about the future. Pretty soon after the last game, I went again to train. For me, it was important to record the fitness that was built up in the months before and don’t fall back too far. This way I could experience at the same time whether it was from a physical point of view. From that point of view, it felt good and it was realistic to continue for another year. My body didn’t give me the good feeling and confidence I needed. That’s why I have decided to stop,” he added.
“A very difficult decision, because the mind and the emotion are directly opposite each other. The football heart wanted to continue, especially with that ultimate goal of a full Euroborg in prospect. Enjoy the game and hope your fans still give something back. But they sometimes say: “Everything comes to an end.” I think the decision to quit is fair and realistic. That’s why I’m not a player from today more, but supporter of our FC. I want to thank all football supporters and fans for all the beautiful warm support and sweet messages I have received over the past year. That was amazing and heartwarming. I wish everyone and everyone a great football season in full stadiums, but above all good health! Greetings,” concluded Robben.
At his peak, Robben was one of Europe’s most feared forwards, and he ends his career with an impressive trophy haul.
