Nemanja Vidic: Former Manchester United captain retires with immediate effect

The 34-year-old central defender was without a club after terminating his contract with Internazionale by mutual consent earlier this month

Mark Critchley
Friday 29 January 2016 13:10 GMT
Comments
Former Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic says farewell to Old Trafford in 2014
Former Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic says farewell to Old Trafford in 2014 (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.

Former Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic has retired from professional football.

The 34-year-old central defender was without a club after terminating his contract with Internazionale by mutual consent earlier this month.

Vidic signed for United for £7million in 2006 and subsequently won five Premier League titles, three League Cups and the Champions League during a nine-year spell at Old Trafford.

The Serbian will be fondly remembered as one of club’s best defenders, having formed half of an impressive central-defensive partnership with Rio Ferdinand.

He was named club captain at the start of the 2010/11 season, a position he held until his departure for Serie A four years later.

"The time has come for me to hang up my boots," he said in a statement released by United’s official website. "The injuries I have had in the last few years have taken their toll.

"I would like to thank all the players I have played with, all the managers and staff I have worked with, and say a big 'thank you' to the fans for their support over the years."

Vidic began his career with Red Star Belgrade, where he was sent on loan to Spartak Subotica. In 2004, he joined Spartak Moscow, where he spent a further two years.

More to follow...

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