Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has announced his retirement from football.
The former Spain international has called time on an 18-year playing career that saw him score 81 goals in four seasons at Liverpool and win the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup with Chelsea. In addition to the World Cup with Spain.
Torres wrote on Twitter; “I have something very important to announce. After 18 exciting years, the time has come to put an end to my football career. Next Sunday, the 23rd at 10:00 AM, local time in Japan, I will have a press conference in Tokyo to explain all the details. See you there.”
A loan spell at AC Milan from Chelsea preceded his return to Atletico in January 2015 before the Fuenlabrada-born forward made his move to Japan last July.
Torres was arguably most successful on the international stage and was an important member of the Spain side that won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012, as well as the World Cup in 2010. He has fired in 260 strikes in 784 club games as well as his international haul.
Torres won 110 caps for Spain and his 38 goals are only bettered by David Villa and Raul.
Liverpool and Chelsea both wished Torres well in retirement, tweeting video highlights of his goals for their respective causes.