Manchester City legend Zabaleta retires after 18-year career
Argentine right-back Pablo Zabaleta, who won the Premier League title twice during his illustrious career at Manchester City, retired on Friday.
"After 18 years as a professional footballer, I took the decision to retire from playing football," the 35-year-old announced on Twitter. "These have been wonderful years that gave me the opportunity to enjoy unique and unforgettable moments.
"Forever I will thank all the people that shared the journey with me."
Zabaleta appeared in over 300 matches after joining City from Espanyol in 2008.
Always our warrior.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 16, 2020
Happy retirement, Zaba! 💙 https://t.co/EfKVEFlkUE pic.twitter.com/bybPugp4zO
Along with playing an important role in City's title-winning seasons, he also helped the club win the FA Cup and two League Cups.
After ending his nine-year spell at City in 2017, Zabaleta spent his final seasons at West Ham United.
Zabaleta also made 58 appearances for Argentina, including the 2014 World Cup final against Germany.