9 Top Footballers Who Retired in 2024: The End of an Era
The world of football has witnessed some truly remarkable players who’ve spent decades thrilling fans, creating memories, and etching their names into the annals of the sport's history. However, as all great journeys do, these careers must eventually come to an end.
The year 2024 saw the curtain fall on the playing days of 10 legendary footballers, each of whom brought a unique blend of skill, passion, and determination to the pitch. Whether by choice or necessity, their decisions to retire were a sign of the changing times in football.
Here Are The 9 Top Footballers who Retired in 2024
1. Joe Hart (England)
Final Club: Celtic (Scotland)
Age: 37
Career Stats: 938 matches, 347 goals conceded, 137 clean sheets
Joe Hart’s journey from Manchester City’s young prodigy to an English goalkeeper icon has been filled with accolades and moments of brilliance. His role in City’s first Premier League title in 2012 and his high-energy performances made him one of the top shot-stoppers of his generation.
But it wasn’t just his talent; it was his leadership, cocky confidence, and determination that made him stand out. Even in his final years at Celtic, Hart's influence remained strong, but after a brilliant run across Europe, he decided to hang up his gloves on May 25, 2024, signalling the end of an era for one of the most charismatic keepers in modern football.
2. Leonardo Bonucci (Italy)
Final Club: Fenerbahce (Turkey)
Age: 37
Career Stats: 920 matches, 37 goals, 10 assists
For over a decade, Leonardo Bonucci stood as one of the pillars of Italy's defensive line and Juventus' indomitable back four. Bonucci’s leadership and defensive prowess were crucial to both Italy's Euro 2020 triumph and Juventus' domestic dominance.
With nine Serie A titles and countless memorable performances, his legacy is cemented. Bonucci left Juventus in 2023 and had brief spells at Union Berlin and Fenerbahce before calling time on his illustrious career. His retirement on 30 May 2024 was the end of an era for Italy’s defence as he left fans with countless iconic memories.
3. Thiago Alcantara (Spain)
Final Club: Liverpool (England)
Age: 33
Career Stats: 433 matches, 49 goals, 74 assists
Thiago Alcantara’s retirement comes with a sense of what could have been. A genius with the ball, a maestro in midfield, Thiago’s career was defined by his elegance on the pitch. Despite an impressive list of trophies—including two Champions Leagues and 11 league titles—his career was marred by frustrating injury spells that prevented him from reaching his full potential.
Nonetheless, Thiago’s retirement on July 8, 2024, left fans reminiscing about his time at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool. Even though injury kept him off the field for much of the latter part of his career, when he was fit, Thiago was one of the most mesmerising players to watch.
4. Toni Kroos (Germany)
Final Club: Real Madrid (Spain)
Age: 34
Career Stats: 918 matches, 62 goals, 213 assists
Arguably one of the most complete midfielders to grace the game, Toni Kroos’ retirement after Euro 2024 marked the end of a golden era for Real Madrid. With an exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a match, Kroos was at the heart of one of the most successful club sides in history.
The 2014 World Cup winner and six-time Champions League champion was known for his calm demeanour and masterful technique, and his departure signalled the close of an unforgettable chapter in football.
5. Marouane Fellaini (Belgium)
Final Club: Shandong Taishan (China)
Age: 36
Career Stats: 539 matches, 117 goals, 54 assists
Few players are as synonymous with style, grit, and a towering presence in the box as Marouane Fellaini. The Belgian midfielder was more than just his signature afro—he was a workhorse, a vital player for Everton and Manchester United. His game wasn’t just about finesse but about heart, determination, and the ability to turn up in crucial moments.
After five successful years in the Chinese Super League with Shandong Taishan, Fellaini retired on 3 February 2024. The man who could score powerful headers and spark joy with his work ethic leaves behind a legacy of never giving up.
6. Raphael Varane (France)
Final Club: Como (Italy)
Age: 31
Career Stats: 480 matches, 38 goals, 15 assists
At just 31, Raphael Varane’s decision to retire was a shock. A World Cup winner and four-time Champions League winner, Varane had already achieved more than most players could dream of in their careers.
After joining Como in 2024 following his exit from Man United, he took the decision to call it a day, reflecting on a career filled with success and commitment. His graceful defending and ability to read the game made him one of the best centre-backs of his generation and his retirement leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of several football fans.
7. Pepe (Portugal)
Final Club: Porto (Portugal)
Age: 41
Career Stats: 737 matches, 42 goals, 34 assists
Pepe’s career defied age, and even at 41, he was still turning in top performances for Porto and Portugal. Renowned for his aggressive style, leadership, and resilience, the Portuguese defender made a significant impact at Real Madrid, where he won 13 major titles, including multiple Champions Leagues.
His time with Porto was equally successful, and his performances at Euro 2024 proved that he had more in the tank than many thought possible. The fact that he retired as one of the oldest players in European Championship history speaks volumes about his dedication to the game and his unparalleled drive. He is also one of Real Madrid's best defenders of all-time.
8. Ryan Bertrand (England)
Final Club: Leicester City (England)
Age: 34
Career Stats: 408 matches, 12 goals, 26 assists
Ryan Bertrand’s journey from the Chelsea academy to Premier League glory saw him become a reliable and admired presence for his clubs and country. Most notably, he earned his place in Chelsea history with that unforgettable 2012 Champions League final performance, playing out of position to help secure the Blues' first-ever European trophy.
After years of tireless performances at Southampton, and a final stint at Leicester City, Bertrand announced his retirement on June 18, 2024. While he kept quiet about his post-football plans, his contributions on the field speak volumes. Bertrand’s ability to adapt and his constant drive to succeed were hallmarks of a successful and respected career
9. Jesús Navas (Spain)
Final Club: Sevilla (Spain)
Age: 39
Career Stats: 480 matches, 38 goals, 15 assists
Jesús Navas officially hung up his boots on December 31, 2024, marking the end of a remarkable 21-year career that saw him become the embodiment of Sevilla FC. With 516 La Liga appearances for the Andalusian club, Navas’s contributions go beyond mere statistics—he is the heart and soul of Sevilla.
Navas, who made 705 appearances in all competitions for Sevilla over 18 seasons, was instrumental in the club's multiple Europa League triumphs, providing moments of magic that thrilled fans at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium. He also spent four seasons at Manchester City between 2013 and 2017.
His final La Liga appearance came fittingly on a grand stage: the Santiago Bernabéu, where he came on as a substitute in a 4-2 match against Real Madrid. For fans, his retirement was bittersweet, as they bade farewell to a hometown hero who exemplified loyalty, passion, and a relentless drive to succeed.
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