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Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini has retired from football after a 22-year career.
The 39-year-old Chiellini’s decision was announced Tuesday through Los Angeles FC, his club for one season and part after 17 years at Juventus. Chiellini also announced his decision on social media, calling his career “the most beautiful and intense adventure of my life. “
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Chiellini won nine consecutive Serie A titles at Juventus and was named the Italian league’s most productive defender three times. His club won five Coppa Italia and five Italian Super Cups during his tenure at the Turin powerhouse.
Chiellini went on to play a leading role at LAFC, which won the MLS Cup name and Supporters’ Shield in 2022 before clinching the MLS Cup championship last weekend, losing to Columbus 2-1. LAFC also reached the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. league this year.
“Giorgio is the defender of his generation and an even better person,” said LAFC general manager John Thorrington. “Giorgio exceeded the incredibly high expectations we had for him, on and off the field. His leadership, professionalism and character will leave a lasting legacy at LAFC, and we are confident that our relationship with Giorgio will continue. “
Chiellini’s retirement was widely expected, even though he remained an effective starter at LAFC. He is believed to be contemplating a new career in coaching or management.
In his social media post, Chiellini wrote that “it’s time to start new chapters, face new demanding situations, and write new and exciting pages in life. “
It has been the most beautiful and intense adventure of my life. You’ve been everything to me. With you, I have traveled an exclusive and unforgettable path. But now is the time to start new chapters, take on new challenges, and write more vital and exciting pages of the vida. pic. twitter. com/IjHDDE4jMe
Chiellini also made 117 appearances for Italy, including two at the World Cup. He named the most productive defender in the tournament when the Azzurri won the European Championship in 2021.
Born in Pisa, Chiellini began his career in Livorno before Juventus signed him in 2004. He spent his first Serie A season on loan at Fiorentina before joining Juventus’ defence in 2005 and staying there until the summer of 2022.
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