Topics: Greece, Superliga, Olympiakos, Eric Abidal, FC Barcelona
The French defender stated he has two offers to manage youth teams, one with Olympiakos, and the other with his former club. Barcelona

French defender Eric Abidal announced his retirement in a press conference today. The former Barcelona player, winner of four La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies with Los Blaugranas, confirmed his decision due to "personal reasons".

"I have decided to end my professional career here at Olympiakos. I told this to the team's president two months ago, and I promised to give everything to the team until December. I take this decision based on personal reasons. I just want to be with my family and spend some time with them," Abidal stated.

A source of inspiration to many, Abidal revealed some of his relatives and friends asked him to go on, but he decided it was time to end his stint as a footballer.

"A lot of people wanted me to go on. It's a shame, but I can't do this anymore. If I had taken this step two years ago, maybe I would have regretted it, but now I won't. I want to spend time with my family, think about what I'm going to do and help some of the people I love," Abidal added.

"Abi" retires from professional football after playing with Monaco, Olympique Lyon, Barcelona and Olympiakos. After the announcement, his colleagues, friends and fans paid respect to the man.

FC Barcelona paid tribute to their former defender.

 

"A great example in every sense. Thanks my friend!

"Thanks for everything, you are an example, a fighter. Good luck in your new endeavours."

"It was a pleasure having shared the locker room with you. All the best in this new stage, you are an example to us all."