Former Manchester City Defender Pablo Zabaleta Retires From Football

Former Manchester City and Argentina defender Pablo Zabaleta has announced his retirement from professional football after an 18-year career.

The 35-year-old left West Ham at the end of the previous season and decided to bring his playing career to a close.

Zabaleta joined Manchester City from Espanyol in 2008 and became an important part of the club’s rise to prominence in English football.

He spent nine years at the Etihad Stadium, making 333 appearances and helping City win the Premier League titles in 2011-12 and 2013-14.

The Argentine also lifted the FA Cup in 2011 and the League Cup in 2014 and 2016.

Zabaleta earned 58 international caps for Argentina and established himself as a popular figure among Manchester City supporters.

Pep Guardiola described him as a “legend” when he left City to join West Ham in 2017.

The full-back went on to make 80 appearances for the Hammers before leaving the club.

Reflecting on his career, Zabaleta said he was grateful for the experiences and people who had been part of his journey.

“After 18 years as a professional footballer, I took the decision to retire from playing football,” he wrote on social media.

“These have been wonderful years that gave me the opportunity to enjoy unique and unforgettable moments.”

Zabaleta also thanked his former clubs, teammates, coaches, family and friends for their support throughout his career.

“With a lot of emotions, I leave behind one of the best stages of my life,” he said. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”