[新聞] Ivan de la Pena announces retirement from football
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Tearful Ivan de la Pena announces retirement from football
Former Barcelona midfielder says his body can no longer cope with the
physical stresses of the professional game
An emotional Ivan de la Pena broke down in a press conference on Thursday
as he announced his retirement from football, stating that injuries have
eventually forced him to quit the game.
The 35-year-old Espanyol midfielder, who has barely featured for the club
in the past two seasons due to physical problems, burst into tears as he
told the media why he has decided to step aside.
"One does not want to choose the end, I would have liked to have played for
longer, but it could not be. We must look ahead. My head wanted to carry on
[playing] but my body has said enough," De La Pena admitted.
"Football is the greatest, and I really enjoyed it. It has given me
everything. I would have liked the last few years to have gone better,
still it helped me grow as a footballer and as a person."
Asked whether he would consider coaching in future, the former Barcelona
man stated it was unlikely, but promised he would remain close to the game.
"I cannot see myself as a coach, but I would like to stay tied to the world
of football, and also now with my family, who deserve some time."
De La Pena has made just one substitute appearance this season in which he
played 30 minutes for the Barcelona-based club.
During his career he starred for Barca, Lazio, Olympique Marseille, and the
Spain national side, and was given the nickname 'The Little Buddha' due to
his shaven head and diminutive frame.
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