Former Manchester United and Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has announced his retirement at the age of 36.
The Journey of a Football Legend
The Belgian star left Chinese side Shandong Taishan in November after four years with the club.
And now, following three months of unemployment, he has confirmed he is hanging up his boots.
A Farewell Message
Speaking on Instagram, Fellaini said: "I am writing this post to announce that after a career of 18 years, I am retiring from professional football.
"But it all started long before these 18 years. I remember, like the day of yesterday, my first game as a child, the endless training sessions with my dad, my first selection for Standard de Liege, and my first selection for the Belgian national team. Time flies!
"What an incredible journey it has been! I am so grateful to have played the sport I love at the highest level.
"I am proud to have represented Standard in Belgium, Everton and Manchester United in the UK, and Shandong Taishan in China.
"It was an honor to have played for the Belgian national team at the Olympics of 2008, Euro 2016 and the World Cups of 2014 and 2018."
He continued: "I have played in front of the best fans in the world, and I want to take this moment to thank all of them for their unwavering support throughout my career.
"Your encouragement and passion have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
"All of this would have been impossible without my family, teammates, coaches, advisers and everyone who has been a part of my journey.
"Your love, guidance, support, and friendship have been invaluable. Thank you!
"As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I look forward to new challenges, but be assured, I will continue to support the beautiful game in any way I can. See you soon!"
Tributes Pour In
Reacting to the post, former Everton team-mate Victor Anichebe replied: "Well done brother! Good luck in your next chapter!"
Another ex-Toffees pal, Steven Pienaar, added: "Mashallah brother!"
Former boxing world champion and diehard Everton fan Tony Bellew also responded: "Best of luck brother!!"
A Remarkable Career
Prior to his China move, Fellaini spent five-and-a-half years at Man Utd where he made 177 appearances.
He helped the Red Devils win the FA Cup in 2016, before he claimed both the Carabao Cup and Europa League the following year.
The midfielder also made 177 appearances for Everton where he became a cult figure because of his iconic afro and goalscoring ability.
He earned 87 caps for Belgium, retiring from international football in 2019 after reaching the World Cup semi-finals the previous year.
At Shandong, Fellaini won the Chinese FA Cup three years in a row between 2020 and 2022 and is widely considered a legend of the club.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right football boots for my playing surface?
Selecting the appropriate football boots is dependent on the type of surface you’ll be playing on. For natural grass pitches, cleats with metal studs (FG – firm ground) are advisable as they provide traction and stability. For artificial turf, boots with numerous small rubber studs (AG – artificial grass) or a flat sole (TF – turf) are designed to offer better grip and reduce the risk of injury. Indoor courts (IN), require rubber soles that do not mark the surface.
Can I wear my athletic gear or do I have to wear football-specific apparel?
The clothing for football is different from other athletic wear. This is because it is specifically designed to enhance comfort and performance on the field. Jerseys and shorts are usually made of lightweight, breathable materials that allow for optimal airflow, reducing overheating and sweat build-up. The fit of the jerseys and shorts is designed to provide a full range-of-motion, improving your agility and response time during play.
How can I make sure my football boots are the right size?
In order to get the right fit, the football boot should be snug without being too tight. This allows for a little movement and prevents the foot from sliding into the boot. If you want to prevent squeezing your toes in the boot while running or when kicking, leave about a half-thumb’s distance between the toes. You should also consider your foot width and choose a boot that fits narrow or wide feet. Always try on boots with football socks and lace them up fully to assess the fit accurately.
What is the best type of goalkeeper glove for grip and protection?
Goalkeeper gloves featuring a palm made of latex offer the best performance under different conditions. The thickness and density of the latex can vary to balance grip and durability. Gloves that have finger protection systems (including spines and stiffening materials) can help prevent hyperextension of the fingers. A good pair of gloves should also be comfortable and fit well to enable the goalkeeper to perform at their best.
Why is it mandatory for footballers to wear shin guards?
Shin guards, which protect the lower legs against injury during collisions and tackles, are an essential piece of football equipment. They protect the shins against serious injuries, such as fractures or severe bruises. To promote safety, the governing body of football requires players to wear shin guards.
Statistics
- Studies show that the proper use of shin guards can reduce the risk of injuries in football players by up to 70%.
- Over 90% of professional football players wear boots with synthetic uppers for better performance and durability.
- Globally, the demand for lightweight football cleats has risen by about 30% in the past decade, reflecting changes in player preferences and playing styles.
- Research has indicated that around 60% of football-related ankle injuries could be mitigated with the correct choice of footwear.
- A survey found that nearly 80% of football players believe that high-quality football socks are essential for optimal performance.
External Links
nike.com
soccer.com
uksoccershop.com
footy.com
puma.com
How To
How to Buy Quality Shin Guards
To ensure your safety while playing, it is wise to invest in high-quality shinguards. Choose guards made of polypropylene and carbon fiber. The guards should fit snugly and comfortably without restricting your movement. The shin-guard size is also crucial; it should cover a large area, from the ankle up to the knee. Some shinguards feature ankle protection for added safety. These are ideal for young players or those in physically more demanding leagues.
