Arjen Robben’s retirement: Lewandowski, Ramos and the football world reacts
Bayern Munich legend Arjen Robben announced his retirement from football on Thursday, 4 July. The former Groningen, PSV, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Bayern star called time on his incredible career, of which he spent 10 years in the Bundesliga with the record German champions.
Robben’s former Bayern team-mates, and the rest of the footballing world, reacted to the Dutchman hanging up his boots with a host of heartfelt messages from former team-mates and opponents.
“The end of a career for a unique athlete – thanks for the time together and the successes we experienced together at Bayern, Arjen. All the best for your future!” – Philipp Lahm
“A great leaves the football stage. Thanks for all the fantastic moments and games over the past decade, Arjen. All the best my friend.” – Thomas Müller
“It was a pleasure to play by your side and against you. All the best.” – Sergio Ramos
“A great player and a great person leaves the football stage. It was an honour to play with you and to celebrate such great titles with you. All the best my friend. Enjoy it.” – Jerome Boateng
“One of the best footballers I’ve ever played with. Thank you for being an incredible team-mate. It was a genuine honour.” – Robert Lewandowski
“Your game was something else, your character more than special. Sad to hear you leavin’ the big stage now but I can call myself very proud to have been not only a witness but also a team-mate of one of this millennium's best wingers. Enjoy every piece of your future, Arjen.” – David Alaba
“One of the best wingers of all time retires. You've always been an inspiration for me. I'm pretty sure left backs across the globe will be relieved now. All the best, Arjen!” – Amin Younes
“Enjoy your time off the pitch. One of the best players and an even better person.” – Mario Götze
“Congratulations on a fantastic career Arjen! It was a pleasure to play with you and I wish you all the best in your life after football! There are enough beautiful things to do!” – Edwin van der Sar
“All the best, legend!” – Marc Bartra
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