Rafinha Alcantara Announces Retirement from Football Due to Injury

Player Rafinha Alcantara, a treble winner with Barcelona, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32 due to a knee injury.

Rafinha, who began his career with Barcelona in November 2011 and spent over a decade there before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and having loan spells with Inter Milan and Celta Vigo, indicated that the injury prevented him from competing at the highest level.

The player posted a video accompanied by a poignant message, stating: “After a period away from the pitch and a long recovery, it's time to announce something important. I have made the decision to retire. Just over a year ago, I suffered a knee injury which, unfortunately, prevents me from returning to compete at the highest level. It was difficult to accept that I cannot continue. Thank you to my family for always being there, and thank you to everyone for the love and support. Thank you football for making me who I am. Goodbye.”

For its part, Barcelona responded to Rafinha's announcement, saying: “Thank you for your football and for defending these colors with pride and commitment. Good luck in this new phase, Rafinha.”