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Dutch legend Robben retires

CHRISTOF STACHE / AFP / Getty

Left-backs of the world rejoice, Arjen Robben has retired from football.

The deft-dribbling winger, famous for his trademark cut-in from the right wing, announced the end of his professional career on Thursday, marking the completion of a decorated 19-year run spent with five clubs.

"I have decided to put an end to my career as a professional football player," Robben said in a statement, according to the Independent.

Robben ended a decade-long stay at Bayern Munich at the end of last season and also enjoyed spells at Real Madrid, Chelsea, PSV, and Groningen. Following the climax of the 2018-19 campaign, Robben was linked with moves to Inter, Major League Soccer, and a Groningen return.

"It is without doubt the most difficult decision I have had to make in my career. A decision in which 'heart' and 'mind' collided," Robben added. "At the moment I am fit and healthy and as a fan of many other sports I want to keep it that way for the future. So I will definitely stop, but it is good that way."

The 35-year-old has a dozen league titles to show for his time playing in Europe's top leagues, twice earning a selection to UEFA's Team of the Year. Robben also finished fourth in Ballon d'Or voting in 2014.

"The love for the game gives you the conviction that you can still handle the whole world, as opposed to the reality that not everything works the way you want and you are no longer the 16-year-old boy who had no idea what an injury meant," Robben admitted.

Robben retired from international duty in October 2017 following the Netherlands' failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. He bagged 37 goals in 96 caps and played a vital role in the Oranje's runner-up finish at the 2010 World Cup and third-place standing in 2014.

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