LA LIGA goalkeeper Jaume Domenech has announced his retirement from professional football over the ‘health situation of a loved one’.
The 34-year-old stopper announced the decision in a devastating statement on Instagram.
The Spaniard is a 10-year veteran of the league but was released by long-time club Valencia at the end of last season.
He thanked clubs who reached out to him while awaiting his career decision, but he has decided to draw his career to a close.
His statement read: “Today, I want to share a deeply considered decision with all of you: I have decided to end my career as a professional football player.
“First, I believe it’s only right to thank all the clubs that contacted me this summer and formally showed their interest in having me be a part of their projects, and for their patience in waiting for me to make a final decision.
“Football is my life, my passion, but things don’t always happen the way you’d like. I am hanging up my boots due to a health situation with one of my loved ones.
“My heart and the values that have shaped me as a person tell me that I need to be by their side. I feel that I must be close to my family now, not far away.”
The experienced keeper spent the majority of his career at Spanish club Valencia.
He primarily featured as a back-up option during his decade with the senior team, but he still amassed almost 125 appearances in all competitions.
He played for the club during Manchester United legend Gary Neville’s ill-fated time with the outfit.
His statement continued: “The journey as a professional footballer has been thrilling and ends today for a greater cause, but I also want to say that I am not saying goodbye to football.
“I am simply closing one chapter to open another.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your love and understanding.”
He received an immediate shower of support from teammates and fellow professionals across Europe.
Former Valencia and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler penned a touching response, saying: “Those of us who have shared the locker room with you know everything.
“We love you very much, friend! This new stage is going to be spectacular, I’m sure. Thank you for everything.”
New Liverpool signing Georgi Mamardashvili, who Domenech played with at Valencia, echoed his support, saying: “You are an example to everyone Jau!! Best of luck.”
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