1 Eric Cantona (30 years old)
Eric Cantona’s decision to say goodbye to football in 1997 surprised many fans because it came in a sudden and unexpected way. At that time, the striker wearing shirt number 7 was a symbol at Manchester United.
Cantona is coach Alex Ferguson’s regret.
He was the catalyst that brought success to the club in the 90s of the last century, after joining Manchester United from great rival Leeds. Eric Cantona played an important role in the journey to end the title thirst after 26 years of waiting for “Red Devils” fans.
His decision to retire early caused him to miss out on Manchester United’s Champions League title just two years later, as well as the 1998 World Cup title with the French team. However, Eric Cantona himself once shared that, He has no regrets about retiring early from his career.
2. Gareth Bale (33 years old)
Retiring at the age of 33 last January 2023, Gareth Bale called it normal compared to the average retirement age of football players. But when the former Welsh player announced the above decision, it still made those who loved him feel disappointed and regretful because the farewell took place a bit early.
Gareth Bale quit football to play golf.
Gareth Bale could absolutely be greater than what he achieved throughout his career, but with a long history of injuries, the legend who played for Real Madrid made the right choice. He owns almost every title at the club level with “Los Blancos”.
The Welsh winger joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for a world record transfer fee in 2013. Although he may have played the role of “villain” at the Bernabeu, he also spent 9 seasons with the club. , won many major titles, including 5 Champions League championships. After winning the MLS Cup with LAFC and leading Wales to their first World Cup in 64 years, Gareth Bale decided to hang up his boots.
3. Marco van Basten (31 years old)
Diego Maradona was once asked who was the best player he witnessed, the Argentine legend immediately mentioned Romario and Marco van Basten. So, imagine what the world missed when the former AC Milan striker was forced to retire at the age of 31?
Van Basten was forced to retire early due to an ankle injury.
Van Basten proved himself to be one of the greatest players of all time long before that, winning two European Cups (the predecessor to the Champions League), three times receiving the Golden Ball title in the same row. series of impressive scoring achievements in the colors of Ajax Amsterdam and AC Milan. Sadly, due to a recurring ankle injury, he could not return to his terrible form and decided to retire even though he was only 31 years old.
Huy Truong | 07:05 October 13, 2023
