Fernando Torres said goodbye to football after playing the final match of a glittering career in Japan on Friday.
The Spaniard has spent the final knockings of his career playing for J1 League outfit Sagan Tosu who fell to a 6-1 defeat against Vissel Kobe in the striker’s last game.
Good friends Andres Iniesta and David Villa – who star for Vissel Kobe – were on hand to bid farewell to their compatriot and inflict defeat on Torres who announced his decision to retire in June.
Ahead of his last match, Torres penned a farewell letter to the world of football that was printed and placed on every seat at the Best Amenity Stadium for fans to read and keep as a momento.
(Image: Action Images)
It reads: “When I was five years old, I started playing football with my brother. Thirty years later I will play my final match as a professional.
“Today I look back and can hardly believe everything I have lived through. I feel very fortunate to have been able to win the most important trophies in the world and play for some of the most prestigious clubs.
“There are also the successes with the Spanish national team; I have experienced feelings of great emotion and happiness. I wanted to thank football for making me so happy.
“But I don’t want to forget the most authentic part of the sport, the part which makes it so wonderful: the fans.”
(Image: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
He continues: “Thanks to each and every one of the fans of the teams I played for, loving, cheering and respecting me. Also, to rival fans because you made me a better player.
“I hope it made you enjoy my football and inspired you in some way. Never stop chasing your dreams, it has been a real pleasure. Thank you, football.”
Torres starred for Liverpool , Chelsea and AC Milan before returning to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid – ahead of his move to Asia which turned out to be his final destination.
