It is very common for a player to get to the end of their career and experience a wide range of emotions. Some have pride, some regret, and some face fear into what will be a new and uncharted chapter in their life.
Deciding to call time on a 10-year career which has taken me to four countries and introduced me to countless people from all backgrounds and origins, while giving me the opportunity to play the game I love, was a hard decision to make.
I end my playing career with the two emotions that have been consistent since I stepped off the field for the last time: gratitude and excitement.
My gratitude goes out to the supporters around the world of the teams I have both played for and those I have not. Professional soccer would not exist without you spending your time and hard-earned money to watch us play. For that, I thank you for making my dream a reality.
I also want to thank every player, coach and staff member who I have had the honor to work with over the years. I appreciate each person’s style of management, passion and combination of talent and work ethic. Whether we were close or never saw eye-to-eye, I acknowledge and thank you.
Since my family and I made this decision, I have felt a rush of excitement. The strange part is, the feeling has nothing to do with the game of soccer.
I am genuinely excited for the next chapter in my life.
I look at a world that is changing and evolving at the blink of an eye, and I see opportunity. The opportunities for those with leadership, creativity, empathy and passion are there and I want to jump in. As I step away from the game for now, I doubt it will be the last you have heard from me in the world of soccer.
