David Silva retires due to injury

"Thank you very much football," Silva announced his decision to retire on Instagram on July 27. "Today is a sad day for me, a time to say goodbye to the sport I have dedicated my life to, and a time to say goodbye to my teammates who are like my family. I will miss you very much."

On July 21, on the training ground of Sociedad, Silva injured the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee. This injury requires a lot of recovery time, and led to the 37-year-old star's decision to retire.

Silva used to play for Eibar, Celta Vigo and Valencia, before moving to Man City in the summer of 2010. He helped the Etihad Stadium team win four Premier Leagues, two FA Cups, League Cups and two English Super Cups. In 2020, Silva returned to Spain to play for Sociedad.

Silva also has 12 years of international play, 125 matches and 35 goals for Spain. He is an important member of the golden generation that won Euro 2008, 2012 and the 2010 World Cup.

"David is one of the greatest players in the history of Man City", Man City grateful after the announcement of Silva's retirement. "Everyone at Man City would like to wish David all the best on his retirement and thank you once again for his incredible service to the club over the past 10 years."

Two former teammates, Riyad Mahrez and Edin Dzeko both use the word "magician" to thank Silva. Another former teammate, Aymeric Laporte wrote: "Legendary, thanks for everything". Former Man City coach Roberto Mancini also praised his former student: "Simply the best".