Former Serie A midfielder Giacomo Bonaventura announced his retirement at the age of 36.

Former Serie A star Giacomo Bonaventura officially announced on Thursday that he will end his 18-year professional career, effective immediately.

Bonaventura, 36, is a versatile midfielder standing 1.80 meters tall and weighing 75 kilograms. He made his professional debut for Atalanta in Serie A on May 4, 2008. He subsequently played for Italian clubs such as Pedro Masr, Padova, AC Milan, and Fiorentina, before finally playing his last professional match for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Arabian league.

To date, Bonaventura has made 535 club appearances, including 8 in the Europa League, 20 in the Europa League, 380 in Serie A, and 29 in the Saudi League. He also won one Italian Super Cup with AC Milan, and has a total of 87 goals and 71 assists.

As for the national team level, Bonaventura has made 18 appearances for Italy so far, scoring 1 goal and providing 4 assists.

In his retirement statement, Bonaventura reflected on his career: "I never played football to get ahead. I started playing because I felt incredibly free when the ball was at my feet."

“I grew up in Bergamo, Atalanta shaped me. Discipline, hard work, humility. Then I came to AC Milan. At the San Siro, that adrenaline rush goes deep into my bones and never fades. I have a deep bond with you all and feel like I am part of the great history of the Rossoneri.”

"Next was Florence. My four seasons in Florence were unforgettable. A beautiful city, passionate fans, and a great deal of warmth. Finally, Riyadh, a unique experience. New friends and different cultures enriched my life."

"The national team is a special kind of team. You can't describe it in words, you can only feel it in your heart. Representing my country is an honor I will never forget."

"Today, it's time to say goodbye to my football career. But it doesn't mean goodbye forever. My love for this sport runs too deep. My connection with football will never end. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, fans, and family. It's been a wonderful journey."

Image source: Internet