UPDATE - Barcelona's Aguero retires from football due to heart problem

UPDATES WITH STATEMENTS FROM AGUERO'S FORMER CLUBS; CHANGES HEADLINE, LEDE; MINOR EDITS

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) – Barcelona's Argentine forward Sergio Aguero on Wednesday announced his retirement from football due to a heart condition.

"I decided to stop playing professional football. It is a very difficult moment. The decision I made, I have taken it for my health," Aguero told a news conference in tears at the Camp Nou.

He added that he did everything possible to have some hope but made this decision one week ago.

Aguero, 33, was taken to a hospital for cardiological tests after complaining of chest pain during a Spanish La Liga match against Alaves on Oct. 30.

In November, Barcelona said Aguero would be unavailable for at least three months after the tests.

It was reported that Aguero faced cardiac arrhythmia.

- His former clubs wish best for Aguero

Ageuro's former clubs Manchester City and Atletico Madrid wished him all the best following his retirement decision.

Aguero started his professional career in Argentina's Independiente, then he moved to Spain in 2006 to play for Atletico Madrid.

He won the 2010 UEFA Europa League title with Atletico Madrid.

"Thanks for the memories, Sergio. We wish you all the best," the La Liga club said on Twitter.

Aguero joined Manchester City in 2011, becoming the club's all-time leading goal scorer with 260 goals in 390 matches.

"Everyone at Manchester City would like to wish Sergio all the best in his retirement and to thank him once more for the incredible contribution he made to our football club during his ten years here," English Premier League side Manchester City said in a statement.

He won 15 trophies, including five Premier League titles, one FA Cup, six League Cups for Manchester City.