#ThatWas2017: Iconic footballers who retired in 2017
2017 has been an emotional year for football fans as several World Cup and Champions League winners called it a day on their playing careers. Recognising their contribution to the sport, here are the top footballers who bid adieu to the sport this year. We must admit that the world of football will not be the same without them.
Philipp Lahm- The Magic Dwarf
Former Germany and Bayern Munich captain, Philipp Lahm bid adieu to football aged 33. In his illustrious career, he won almost everything, captaining Bayern Munich to Bundesliga and Champions League glory. He also captained Germany to 2014 World cup triumph in Brazil. Lahm will always be remembered as the greatest right back to have ever played the sport.
Super Frankie Lampard
Arguably one of England's greatest ever midfielders and Chelsea's all time top scorer, Frank Lampard called it a day on his glorious 21-year playing career in 2017. Lampard, who enjoyed a glorious playing career with Chelsea, is the highest scoring midfielder in Premier League's history. He captained Chelsea to Champions League glory and has won the Premier League multiple times.
Xabi Alonso- The Read Beard
Not many can boast of a career that has seen success across multiple leagues. Xabi Alonso drew the curtains on his career after his contract expired with Bayern Munich. The midfielder won the Champions League with Liverpool in the dramatic final against AC Milan in 2005. He also won the World Cup and 2 Euro cups with Spain.
Andrea Pirlo- The Professor
In an era where football is turning tactical, Pirlo is probably the last artist of this generation. The best way to describe Andrea Pirlo is to compare him with the great Michelangelo; in Pirlo's case he just painted with his feet. The midfield orchestrator has won the World Cup with Italy, the Serie A with Juventus and the Champions League with AC Milan.
Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite- Kaka
Kaka called it quits at the age of 35. He is the only player other than Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi to pick up the Ballon d'Or in the last 11 years. The former AC Milan player won the World Cup with Brazil. One of the most creative minds in football, Kaka's vision and ability with the ball was always a pleasure to watch.
Francesco Totti- The Golden Boy
Roma legend, Francesco Totti, called it a day on his 24-year playing career with the Italian giants in one of football's most emotional moments. Totti made his debut with Roma as a 16-year-old in 1993 went on to make 786 appearances for Roma. He has taken up the role of Roma's club director post his retirement.
