Former Barcelona and Real Madrid midfielder, Luis Enrique, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34.
“I don’t see myself being able to compete,” the player said in a statement on his website.
“I’ll watch this season from my seat in the stands.”
Luis Enrique Martinez made his debut for Spain in 1991 while still playing for his home town club Sporting Gijon.
He joined Real Madrid in 1991 before making a move to Barca in 1996. It was at the Camp Nou that he established himself, earning a reputation as a gifted attacking midfielder, with an eye for goal.
He went on to make 62 appearances for Spain before retiring from the international game after Spain’s elimination from the 2002 World Cup.
There had been talk of a return to Sporting Gijon but Enrique did not believe his fitness could be sustained over the course of a season.
“I wouldn’t be able to reach the level I’d demand of myself,” Luis Enrique added.
“I wouldn’t be doing Sporting much of a favour by going there.”
