Former Chelsea and England international centre-back Gary Cahill has officially announced his retirement from football at the age of 36.
Cahill, who enjoyed spells with Crystal Palace and Bournemouth after a stunning career with Chelsea, confirmed the news via his social media accounts.
His most successful period came at Stamford Bridge, where he won every major trophy, including the Champions League and Europa League.
In his retirement post, the former Bolton Wanderers man admitted that hanging up his boots was not easy, but he feels now is the right time to move on to the next stage of his career.
“Football is a game that has given me so much enjoyment and success, and as I make the decision to hang up my boots, I can honestly say I gave it everything I had,” Cahill said.
“I’ve achieved things I once dreamt of, creating some incredible memories. From amazing highs like winning the Champions League and Premier League to the privilege of captaining my country and Chelsea in an FA Cup-winning team will remain with me forever.
“Taking the decision to stop playing is not an easy one. I’ve had time to consider my options, and after much deliberation and reflection I feel now is the time to move on to the next stage of my career.
“A special thank you must go to my amazing family, who have supported me and been there every step of the way.
“Beyond that, football will always be part of who I am and what I love so this is just the end of this chapter. For me, it’s important to look forwards, not backward, as a new chapter in my life begins.”
The two-time Premier League winner came through the youth ranks at Aston Villa but made his name with Bolton. However, his move to Chelsea in 2012 proved the catalyst for a successful career.
He won everything there was to win with the west Londoners before leaving for Crystal Palace in 2019 and eventually joining Bournemouth two years later.
Having left the Cherries during the summer, Cahill has brought his illustrious, trophy-laden playing career to a close.
