Deco announces retirement from football

Deco

Ex-Portugal midfielder Deco has announced retirement from football.

Deco wrote on his Facebook page: “It is with great sadness and regret that I must inform the end of my career as a professional athlete. The last few minutes on Wednesday for Fluminense were the last of the 17 years within the field as a football player. I would very much like to continue until the end of this Brazilian and help put the team again in Copa Libertadores. But I’m not getting.

“I want to thank the Fluminense, Celso Barros and all who worked with me in these 3 years and they gave me the opportunity to play in Brazilian football. More than that, I was able to participate and help conquer two Brazilian titles and more the Campeonato Carioca.

“I was very happy in this period at the Club. I would love to have helped more Fluminense, but my body wouldn’t let me. Of course I dedicated myself, worked hard and many have supported me so I follow until end of year. Physically I could play, but my muscles do not support more. Thanks to all and for the trust and affection “(translated from Portuguese)

Deco, an ex-Barcelona and Chelsea player, has played 17 years of professional club football. In 2004, he led FC Porto to a historic Champions League victory under Jose Mourinho.

He joined Barcelona in 2004 for  €15 million fee in cash from Porto. He played 113 matches for Barcelona scoring 13 goals.

He later joined Premier League giants Chelsea in 2008.

Deco has 75 international caps for Portugal and has scored 5 international goals.

He retired from international football after a second round defeat to Spain in the 2010 World cup.