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December 26, 2024 at 8:30 AM

Eleven Heartbreaking Farewells in World Football

2024 saw some of football's greatest players bid farewell, leaving unforgettable legacies. From goalkeepers to strikers, these stars shaped the game's history.

Eleven Heartbreaking Farewells in World Football

In 2024, several of the most iconic football players of the 21st century retired, marking the end of an era. A Brazilian publication, GE, compiled a team of retired stars who made significant contributions to international football, including two Brazilians who represented other nations: Pepe (Portugal) and Thiago Alcantara (Spain).

The list of 11 players includes:

  • Claudio Bravo, the 41-year-old Chilean goalkeeper, renowned for his stints at Barcelona and Manchester City, with titles in the Champions League and Copa America.
  • Pepe, the 41-year-old Portuguese defender born in Brazil, famous for his contributions to Porto, Real Madrid, and Portugal's Euro 2016 victory.

These players collectively hold numerous titles, including four World Cup wins, seven European Championships, two Copa America titles, and an astonishing 22 UEFA Champions League trophies.

This year’s retirements reflect the profound influence these athletes had on football, leaving legacies that will inspire generations to come.