Brazilian footballer Ramires announces retirement at 35

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Brazilian footballer Ramires Santos do Nascimento, known as Ramires, has announced his retirement at the age of 35.

"After some time of reflection, I would like to announce that I have decided to officially end my career as a professional football player," Ramires said on Instagram on Wednesday.

"I'm going to go in other directions, but with the same happiness and courage I've had since I was a child, when, against all expectations, I left my city in the interior of Rio de Janeiro to see the world. Thanks for everything, football!" he added.

The midfielder made appearances for Cruzeiro, Benfica, and Chelsea in his career that spanned 16 years.

Ramires found himself without a club twice in nearly two years, having departed Palmeiras in 2020.

He helped Chelsea claim the Champions League title, Europa League title, and English Premier League trophy.

Ramires, who also scored four goals in 51 games for his nation, clinched the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Chelsea thanked Ramires for his service to the Blues, and wished him all the best for the future.