Brazilian football star Wagner Löw has officially announced that he will end his 24-year professional career, effective immediately.

The 41-year-old Löw primarily plays as a center forward and made his professional debut for Palmeiras in 2002. He subsequently played for several teams, including CSKA Moscow, Flamengo, Shandong Luneng, Corinthians, Monaco, Alania, Besiktas, Keira, Midtjylland, Atlético Recife, Goianiense, and Avaí, before finally playing his last professional match for Réte in the Pernambuco State League in Brazil.

According to Transfermarkt, Löw has made 851 club appearances to date, scoring 373 goals and providing 124 assists. He has also won 22 titles with his clubs, including the UEFA Cup in the 2004/05 season.

Löw also achieved success at the national team level. He made 20 appearances for the Brazilian national team, contributing 4 goals and 4 assists, and won the Copa America twice with the team.

In his retirement statement, Löw emotionally said: "Today is one of the most exciting days of my life. After years of dedicating myself to football, my playing career has officially come to an end."

"These years have been filled with hard work and dedication, as well as countless joys and challenges. All of this has allowed me to grow both on and off the field. That boy from Bangu, who harbored a dream of playing football, never imagined that he would experience all of this: wearing such an important jersey, scoring decisive goals, winning championships, and feeling the love and support of fans wherever he goes. I will always remember this."

"First of all, I want to thank God and my family who have always been by my side, and I also want to thank all the clubs that have left their mark on my career. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff, and especially the fans: you are an indispensable part of this journey. Every cheer when I scored, every support when I won, and even the companionship during difficult times made all the hard work and effort meaningful."

"I leave the pitch with a heart full of gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. Football has given me everything, and I will do my best to repay it with love, dedication, and countless goals."

"My chapter on the football field has come to an end, but my love for football will live on forever. Thank you all very much!"

Image source: Internet