Sergio Aguero has announced his retirement from football with immediate effect, having taken the advice of medical professionals to call time on his career.
Aguero’s decision comes after being diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat, after suffering from breathing difficulties and chest problems during Barcelona’s draw with Alaves in October.
The Argentine forward retires as one of the greatest goalscorers of the modern era, having become the Premier League’s highest-scoring overseas player during a glittering career at Manchester City.
The 33-year-old won five league titles amongst his major honours at the Etihad, becoming City’s all-time record scorer with 260 goals scored across all competitions.
Aguero also had spells with Independiente, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, in addition to winning over a century of caps for Argentina, scoring 41 goals for La Albiceleste and winning the Copa America in 2021.
Following his decision to retire, we look at some of the best reaction and tributes from the football world.
Aguero’s move to Barcelona last summer brought just five appearances, but the Catalan club’s feelings were made clear following an emotional press conference.
We love you, Kun. πππ pic.twitter.com/88dtg9xKJd
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 15, 2021
His former side, Manchester City, paid tribute to Aguero, who became arguably the club’s greatest ever player during a decade of stunning success at the Etihad.
There was also touching tributes from those who have been on the wrong end of Aguero’s clinical quality.
King Kun.
Everyone at Manchester City would like to take this opportunity to thank @aguerosergiokun for his incredible contribution to our success over the last decade and wish him well in his retirement π pic.twitter.com/AgMWXZtPZ8
— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 15, 2021
It was an honour to compete against a player like you, @aguerosergiokun, one of the best players in the world. Best of luck to you and your family.
— Real Madrid C.F. π¬π§πΊπΈ (@realmadriden) December 15, 2021
Aguero burst onto the scene at Independiente before conquering Europe’s biggest leagues with his goalscoring performances in the Premier League and La Liga, each waving goodbye this week to a footballer who starred in both England and Spain.
Sergio Aguero has a firm place in #PL history, winning 5 titles with @ManCity and scoring 184 goals
None more so famous than this one… pic.twitter.com/gfDdubK4ph
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 15, 2021
Thank you for the football… you'll be missed! β€οΈπ’
π @aguerosergiokun π#LaLigaHistory pic.twitter.com/aFcAWrs9c6
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) December 15, 2021
Aguero’s former teammates have also been quick to praise the prolific Argentine, whilst Pep Guardiola ensured he was there to support his former player during his farewell in Catalonia.
One of the best strikers ever! Want to wish you all the best for the future legend. See you soon @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/DLsZ2aL6jg
— Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) December 15, 2021
This video will never get old π€£π€£π€£ happy retirement @aguerosergiokun love you so much π πΎ π₯ @ManCity pic.twitter.com/UUJ82apO7j
— Pablo Zabaleta (@pablo_zabaleta) December 15, 2021
Pep Guardiola flew out to Barcelona so he could be there for Sergio Aguero π pic.twitter.com/A4MesRZuwz
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 15, 2021
Aguero’s goals have transcended Premier League rivalries and there were further tributes from past opponents and former favourites, with Alan Shearer – the man whose record number of Premier League hat-tricks was eclipsed by Aguero – having taken to social media to praise the retiring star.
Those who also followed his career closely in the media were also keen to celebrate his extraordinary talent.
One Of The Greatest @premierleague players EVER. @aguerosergiokun π
LEGEND pic.twitter.com/8yWo7H43l7— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) December 15, 2021
Happy retirement legend. What an incredible player. Stay well. @aguerosergiokun ππ»ππ»ππ» pic.twitter.com/XLWhoUyE6F
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) December 15, 2021
Aguero was the master of the penalty-box with his timing, movement, balance, agility and lethal finish. To have the calm and control for 93:20 was extraordinary. Off the field, a great pro, low maintenance and popular with team-mates. Deserves a special @premierleague award 2/3
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) December 15, 2021
Sergio Aguero, unquestionably one of the modern greats. Thanks for the memories.
Golden Boy winner
Europa League winner
Super Cup winner
Golden Boot winner
5x Premier League winner
FA Cup winner
6x League Cup winner
Olympic gold medallist
Copa America winnerSergio AgΓΌero; one of the best strikers to ππππ grace the game π€©π¦π·pic.twitter.com/A95lw2GVxJ
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) December 15, 2021
