The 2024/25 football season marks the end of an era as several iconic players hang up their boots. These athletes have graced the pitch with their exceptional talent, leadership, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Let's pay tribute to these legends and reflect on their remarkable careers.
Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City's Midfield Maestro
Kevin De Bruyne's departure from Manchester City in May 2025 signals the end of a golden chapter for the club. Joining City in 2015 for a then-record £55 million, De Bruyne quickly silenced critics, becoming the linchpin of Pep Guardiola’s side. Over a decade, he amassed 108 goals and 119 assists, boasting the league's best assists-per-minute rate. His vision, strength, and intelligence redefined the playmaker role, contributing to six Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League victory. Beyond his on-field prowess, De Bruyne's humility and dedication endeared him to fans worldwide.
Toni Kroos – The German Metronome
Toni Kroos, one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation, announced his retirement following Germany's exit from Euro 2024. Concluding his career with Real Madrid, Kroos secured both La Liga and Champions League titles in his final season. Known for his impeccable passing and composure, he was instrumental in Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph and Real Madrid's European dominance. Kroos leaves behind a legacy of elegance and efficiency on the pitch.
Pepe – The Portuguese Warrior
At 41, Pepe concluded a storied career spanning over two decades. The formidable defender was a cornerstone for both Real Madrid and the Portuguese national team, securing three Champions League titles and the Euro 2016 championship. Renowned for his tenacity and leadership, Pepe's presence on the field was both commanding and inspiring. His retirement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football.
Thiago Alcântara – The Midfield Virtuoso
Thiago Alcântara announced his retirement in July 2024 after departing Liverpool. Despite injury setbacks, his career was adorned with accolades, including Champions League victories with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Thiago's technical brilliance and vision made him a joy to watch, embodying the essence of a true midfield maestro. Speculations suggest a potential coaching role alongside Hansi Flick at Barcelona.
Phil Jones – From Defender to Aspiring Manager
Phil Jones, plagued by injuries throughout his career, officially retired in August 2024. Joining Manchester United in 2011, he made 229 appearances and earned 27 caps for England. Post-retirement, Jones has set his sights on management, having completed his coaching A license and expressing a strong desire to lead a team in the near future.
Claudio Bravo – The Chilean Guardian
In August 2024, Claudio Bravo bid farewell to professional football at the age of 41. With a career spanning clubs like Barcelona, Manchester City, and Real Betis, Bravo was celebrated for his composure and shot-stopping abilities. He played a pivotal role in Chile's Copa América victories and left an indelible mark on every team he represented.
Leonardo Bonucci – The Italian Wall
Leonardo Bonucci, a stalwart in Italy's defense, retired in May 2024. With nine Serie A titles, primarily with Juventus, and a Euro 2020 championship, Bonucci's leadership and defensive acumen were unparalleled. His career also included stints with AC Milan, Union Berlin, and Fenerbahce, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to the game.
Ryan Bertrand – The Unassuming Hero
Ryan Bertrand announced his retirement in June 2024. Best known for his unexpected start in Chelsea's 2012 Champions League final victory, Bertrand's career spanned clubs like Southampton and Leicester City. His versatility and professionalism made him a reliable figure in English football.
Joe Hart – England's Former Number One
Joe Hart, once England's first-choice goalkeeper, retired after a successful stint with Celtic. With two Premier League titles at Manchester City and numerous individual accolades, Hart's shot-stopping prowess was instrumental in his teams' successes. His leadership and experience were invaluable assets throughout his career.
Marouane Fellaini – The Towering Midfielder
In February 2024, Marouane Fellaini ended his professional career. Known for his aerial dominance and physical presence, Fellaini was a key figure at Everton and Manchester United before moving to China. His unique style and memorable moments have left a lasting impression on fans worldwide.
Jesús Navas – Sevilla's Loyal Servant
Jesús Navas retired on December 31, 2024, after an illustrious career predominantly with Sevilla. With over 700 appearances, Navas was instrumental in Sevilla's multiple Europa League triumphs. His pace, crossing ability, and dedication made him a fan favorite and a symbol of loyalty in modern football.
Sunil Chhetri – India's Football Icon
Sunil Chhetri announced his retirement from international football in June 2024, concluding a remarkable career as India's all-time leading goal scorer. With over 140 international goals, Chhetri's influence on Indian football is unparalleled. His leadership and passion have inspired countless young athletes across the nation.
Ángel Di María – The Argentine Magician
Ángel Di María, renowned for his dribbling and creativity, retired in 2024. His career highlights include Champions League success with Real Madrid and pivotal roles in Argentina's Copa América and World Cup victories. Di María's flair and vision made him one of the most entertaining players of his generation.
Thomas Müller – Bayern's Raumdeuter
Thomas Müller, the embodiment of Bayern Munich's attacking philosophy, retired in 2024. With numerous Bundesliga titles and two Champions League trophies, Müller's intelligent movement and versatility were key to both club and country's successes, including Germany's 2014 World Cup win.
Manuel Neuer – The Sweeper Keeper
Manuel Neuer, credited with revolutionizing the goalkeeper role, retired in 2024. His exceptional reflexes, distribution, and command of the area set new standards for goalkeepers worldwide. Neuer's accolades include a World Cup with Germany and multiple Champions League titles with Bayern Munich.
Olivier Giroud – The French Target Man
Olivier Giroud, known for his aerial prowess and link-up play, retired in 2024. His career spanned successful periods at Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan, as well as a crucial role in France's 2018 World Cup triumph. Giroud's professionalism and clutch performances earned him respect across the footballing world.
Simon Kjær – Denmark's Defensive Leader
Simon Kjær announced his retirement in 2025 after a distinguished career with clubs like Sevilla, AC Milan, and Fenerbahce. With over 130 caps for Denmark, Kjær's leadership was most evident during Euro 2020, where he played a pivotal role in the team's response to Christian Eriksen's medical emergency. His composure and bravery on and off the pitch have left an enduring legacy.
Felipe Melo – The Brazilian Enforcer
Felipe Melo retired in 2025 after a career characterized by tenacity and leadership. With stints at clubs like Inter Milan, Juventus, and Galatasaray, Melo was known for his aggressive midfield play and unwavering commitment. His contributions were instrumental in Brazil's 2009 Confederations Cup victory.
Gerard Piqué – Barcelona's Defensive Pillar
Gerard Piqué officially retired in 2024 after a brief return following his initial retirement in 2023. A cornerstone of Barcelona's defense, Piqué's career was adorned with multiple La Liga and Champions League titles, as well as a World Cup and European Championship with Spain. His tactical intelligence and leadership were vital to his teams' successes.
Shinji Okazaki – Leicester’s Unsung Hero
Shinji Okazaki, one of the most industrious forwards in modern football, announced his retirement in 2024 after a career that defied expectations. Best known for his crucial role in Leicester City’s historic 2015/16 Premier League title win, Okazaki's energy, pressing, and unselfish play made him a fan favorite not just in England but globally.
A Career of Dedication and Hard Work
Okazaki began his career in Japan before making a name for himself in the Bundesliga with VfB Stuttgart and Mainz. He joined Leicester City in 2015, becoming an integral part of the team’s dream run to the Premier League title. Though not the most prolific goal scorer, his tireless work ethic, intelligent movement, and team-first attitude made him indispensable. Okazaki’s contributions rarely made headlines, but his teammates and managers recognized his critical importance on the pitch.
Impact Beyond the Premier League
After leaving Leicester, Okazaki played for Málaga, Huesca, and several other clubs across Spain and Belgium. He remained active, bringing professionalism and experience to every team. His work ethic and leadership continued to influence younger players and demonstrate what it meant to be a consummate professional.
Legacy and Retirement
Retiring at the age of 38, Okazaki leaves the game with a legacy of humility, grit, and perseverance. He also played 119 times for Japan, scoring 50 goals and featuring in multiple World Cups and Asian Cups. Okazaki's legacy will be remembered not just for his trophy haul but for the respect he commanded among peers. His journey from Shimizu S-Pulse to Premier League champion is an inspiring tale of what discipline and belief can achieve in football.
A Farewell to Footballing Royalty
The 2024/25 season bids farewell to a generation of footballers who shaped the modern game. From midfield generals like Toni Kroos and Kevin De Bruyne to defensive titans such as Pepe and Bonucci, these legends have left behind more than just statistics—they’ve left stories, memories, and standards for future players to strive toward.
Their retirement isn't the end, but rather the start of their new chapters—some in punditry, others in management or grassroots coaching. As the curtain falls on their playing days, fans across the globe pause in gratitude, reflecting on the moments of magic, passion, and humanity these players gave the beautiful game.
About
Q1: Who is the most high-profile football player retiring in the 2024/25 season?
Kevin De Bruyne’s departure from Manchester City and football stands out as one of the biggest retirements of the season, marking the end of a golden era at the club.
Q2: Is Toni Kroos retiring after Euro 2024?
Yes, Toni Kroos confirmed that he would retire after Germany's campaign in Euro 2024, ending a remarkable club and international career.
Q3: Which goalkeepers are retiring this season?
Notable goalkeepers retiring in 2024/25 include Manuel Neuer (Germany and Bayern Munich), Joe Hart (Celtic), and Claudio Bravo (Chile and Real Betis).
Q4: Are any players transitioning into coaching?
Yes, Phil Jones has already completed his coaching license and expressed interest in managing a club in the future. Thiago Alcântara is also rumored to be exploring coaching opportunities.
Q5: Which players retiring this season were part of World Cup-winning teams?
Several retiring players have World Cup titles, including Toni Kroos (Germany 2014), Thomas Müller (Germany 2014), Manuel Neuer (Germany 2014), and Gerard Piqué (Spain 2010).