Juventus playmaker Nedved to retire

Pa
Thursday 26 February 2009 13:06 GMT
Comments
(GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Juventus playmaker Pavel Nedved has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The former Czech Republic international nearly quit before the current campaign but instead opted to sign a new 12-month deal with the Turin club.

But, speaking after the 1-0 Champions League loss to Chelsea last night, he told www.uefa.com: I'm still enjoying playing but considering my physical and mental condition I understand that the time has come to make way for younger players - they deserve to play.

"Maybe you think I'm still young but I'm almost 37.

I will quit at the end of the season, no matter how well we do in the Champions League or Serie A.

"The decision is final and I don't think I will change my mind - I don't need to. It is the right time to quit."

Nedved, who joined Juve from Lazio in 2001, suffered European heartbreak when he was forced to miss the Bianconeri's Champions League final defeat to AC Milan in 2003 - the year he was named European footballer of the year - because of suspension.

He did win the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup with Lazio in 1999 and also landed the Serie A crown the following year.

He has also landed two more Scudetto with Juve.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in