William Gallas retirement: Former Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea defender calls time on career
The former France international is 37-years-old
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.The former France defender, who took in the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham during his career, has told French TV he has decided to call it a day.
Gallas will on Thursday night give a full interview to Sport Confidential about his decision, but in a quote carried by L'Equipe he said: "It is something that is not easy to announce.
"You think that you can continue, but today I cannot."
Gallas started his career with Caen and then joined Marseille, before he was signed by Chelsea in 2001.
He won two Premier League titles with the Blues under Jose Mourinho but left under a cloud in 2006, going to Arsenal as part of the Ashley Cole transfer the other way.
Upon his leaving Chelsea alleged Gallas had threatened to score own goals in their shirt if they did not let him leave - a claim he strongly denied.
Gallas had four years with Arsenal and was made captain by Arsene Wenger, before joining Tottenham in the summer of 2010.
After three seasons with Spurs he transferred to Australian side Perth Glory, who will go down as his last club.
Gallas won 84 caps for France and played in their 2006 World Cup final loss to Italy - it was his goal which saw off the Republic of Ireland in a play-off for the 2010 World Cup after Thierry Henry's infamous handball.
He was also named in the PFA team of the year twice and retires having made 570 career appearances.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments