Bayern Munich transfer news: Franck Ribery confirms he will continue playing after free transfer this summer

The French winger’s contract expires this summer, bringing an end to a 12-year stay in Bavaria

Jack Rathborn
Monday 06 May 2019 11:47 BST
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Franck Ribery has confirmed he will continue playing next season after leaving Bayern Munich this summer.

The 36-year-old’s contract expires this summer to bring an end to a 12-year stay with the German giants.

Ribery, who has made 422 appearances for the club, scoring 123 goals, wants to play on, but admits he is uncertain where his future lies.

“I was at Bayern for 12 years and it was great for me and my family,” Ribery told the club’s official website.

“Of course I’m still here for three more weeks, I don’t want to think too much about what will happen afterwards because I want to keep coming here and enjoy myself on the pitch with my teammates.

“I don’t have a concrete plan for next season yet.

“I’m not sure where I can go to play football. I will keep playing but nothing is 100 percent certain yet. We’ll have to wait and see.”

The French winger has expressed his sadness to leave the Bayern fans, who he insists have been excellent with him from the first day he joined.

“When I came to Bayern, it was a dream come true. In the past 12 years we fought so hard together and won so many titles,” Ribery added.

“It won’t be easy to say goodbye, but we must never forget what we’ve achieved together, we’ve won so much together – more than 20 honours.

Franck Ribery applauds the Bayern fans
Franck Ribery applauds the Bayern fans (AP)

“When I joined Bayern the relationship was immediately great. I always want to do special things for the fans when I’m on the pitch. I always want to play well because it feels so good to wear this jersey.

“The fans know I have heart and that I’m honest. It’s incredible to think I was here for 12 years and it’s tough fo rme and the fans but we cannot forget all the things we experienced together.”

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