Xabi Alonso has confirmed he is to retire at the end of the season.
The midfielder was a crucial part of Spain's golden generation which won the 2010 World Cup and was book-ended by Euro 2008 and Euro 2012 triumphs.
Although previously reported that the 35-year-old was set to step away from professional football, Alonso announced his decision with a short seven-word statement on Twitter.
Lived it. Loved it.
Farewell beautiful game. pic.twitter.com/1aSN7GGNzZ
— Xabi Alonso (@XabiAlonso) March 9, 2017
Best known for spells at Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, Alonso started his career at Real Sociedad, where he was named the Spanish Footballer of the Year in 2003.
He won Champions League titles with both Liverpool and Real Madrid, and added a further three league titles in Madrid and Bayern Munich to his CV.
Widely remembered as one of the most skillful players of his generation, Alonso will finish the season with Bayern Munich where he will look to win his third Bundesliga in a row. The midfielder could also join a very exclusive club if Bayern win the Champions League this season.
Only Clarence Seedorf has previously won the European Cup with three clubs. The Dutch midfielder won the competition with Ajax, Real Madrid and AC Milan.
Alonso will end his career with over 500 appearances at club level and a further 114 for Spain.
