Sergio Agüero has retired from football at the age of 33 due to a heart condition.
The Barcelona striker announced the news at a press conference at the Nou Camp on Wednesday morning, where he addressed the media alongside club president Joan Laporta.
Agüero experienced chest pains and breathing difficulties during the first half of Barcelona’s 1-1 home draw with Alaves on October 30th.
He fell to the turf clutching his chest and was treated for several minutes before being able to walk off and taken to hospital.
The Argentinian was subsequently diagnosed with a cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).
An emotional and tearful Agüero said: “This conference is to communicate that I have decided to stop playing football.
“It is a very difficult moment. The decision I have made I have taken for my health, that is the main reason, because of the problem that I had a month-and-a-half ago.
“I was in good hands of the medical staff who have done their best and have told me the best thing would be to stop playing.
“So I made that decision about a week ago and I want to tell everyone I did everything possible to have hope, but there wasn’t very much.”
The former Manchester City and Atletico Madrid striker continued: “I am very proud of the career I have had, very happy.
“I always dreamt of playing football from five-years-old. I want to show my gratitude to everyone, all of the clubs I played at and, of course, my love, Argentina.
“I don’t know what awaits me in the next life, but I know there are a lot of people who love me and want the best for me.”
