Everyone's worst fears were confirmed on Wednesday. In an emotional press conference, Argentine superstar Sergio Aguero stepped out at the Camp Nou to speak with the press, announcing his official retirement from football.
This statement did not come as a surprise. The Argentine suffered a worrisome hearth arrhythmia in Barcelona's home clash with Deportivo Alaves back in October, forcing him off the pitch due to breathing problem and dizziness. Soon after his diagnosis, many predicted that this would mark the end of Kun's illustrious career.
Nonetheless, hearing the 33-year-old utter those words was emotional. The Man City icon announced that he can no longer play due to his heart condition, admitting that he will be forced to hang up his boots while in tears.
"This conference is to communicate that I have decided to stop playing football," a tearful Aguero said. "It is a very difficult moment. The decision I have made I have taken for my health, that is the main reason, because of the problem that I had a month-and-a-half ago.
"I have decided to stop playing football."
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 15, 2021
— @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/kVpislPA9K
"It's a very difficult moment ... it's for my health."
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 15, 2021
— @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/DYBjqqSQf2
"I was in good hands of the medical staff who have done their best and have told me the best thing would be to stop playing. So I made that decision about a week ago and I want to tell everyone I did everything possible to have hope, but there wasn't very much.'
"I am very proud of the career I have had, very happy. I always dreamt of playing football from five years old. I want to show my gratitude to everyone, all of the clubs I played at and, of course, my love, Argentina.
"I don't know what awaits me in the next life, but I know there are a lot of people who love me and want the best for me."
Aguero showed his class during the press conference, sending out his gratitude to Atletico, Man City, and Barcelona for the amazing career he has had. Furthermore, Blaugrana president Joan Laporta hailed the Albiceleste talent while offering him support amid this tough time.
The Argentine has left his mark in the modern game, in particular the Premier League, having led the Cityzens' rise to the top of English football. Who can forget his iconic stoppage-time winner against QPR to secure the Manchester giants their first Premier League title?
A moment that will be remembered for generations to come.
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) December 15, 2021
Thank you for everything Sergio Aguero. pic.twitter.com/qmDY7MNw84
During his time in the English top-flight, Kun scored 184 goals in 275 matches, helping the club to an impressive five league titles. As a result, it came as no surprise to see some of the greatest clubs and names send out their best wishes to the icon.
Man City understandably led the tributes, but they were not alone, as Chelsea legend John Terry, the Premier League, Bayern Munich, Atletico, and even Real Madrid issuing kind messages on social media. Here are the best tweets in response to this heartbreaking moment.
BREAKING: Sergio Aguero has announced his retirement from football at the age of 33 due to a heart condition.
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 15, 2021
Thank you for all the memories Kun pic.twitter.com/BndhwX8GT2
Sergio Aguero's last career goal came against Real Madrid.
— GOAL (@goal) December 15, 2021
Bowing out like the true goalscoring king he was pic.twitter.com/uzRxcdoPJt
King Kun.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 15, 2021
Everyone at Manchester City would like to take this opportunity to thank @aguerosergiokun for his incredible contribution to our success over the last decade and wish him well in his retirement pic.twitter.com/AgMWXZtPZ8
Sergio Aguero has a firm place in #PL history, winning 5 titles with @ManCity and scoring 184 goals
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 15, 2021
None more so famous than this one... pic.twitter.com/gfDdubK4ph
Sergio Agüero announces in tears: "My health comes first. Medical staff have told me it's best to stop playing and so I'm now leaving Barcelona and retiring from professional football". #Aguero #FCB
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 15, 2021
All the best, Kun! pic.twitter.com/I4unbyRQmX
184 goals
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 15, 2021
5 titles
1 era-defining goal
Enjoy retirement, @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/4ILvPpV92P
@aguerosergiokun in #FPL:
— Fantasy Premier League (@OfficialFPL) December 15, 2021
matches
points
goals
assists
bonus points
seasons with over 200 points
20+ points hauls
legend pic.twitter.com/qVSENgVeYM
Pep Guardiola flew out to Barcelona so he could be there for Sergio Aguero pic.twitter.com/A4MesRZuwz
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 15, 2021
Thank you for the greatest moment in Premier League history, Sergio Aguero pic.twitter.com/LBizR1BdqS
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) December 15, 2021
Just take us back, to do it all over again... @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/VRr1BMXBE8
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) December 15, 2021
One Of The Greatest @premierleague players EVER. @aguerosergiokun
— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) December 15, 2021
LEGEND pic.twitter.com/8yWo7H43l7
An amazing career sadly comes to an end.
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) December 15, 2021
All the best for your future, @aguerosergiokun! pic.twitter.com/aPVy1Ikwrc
Thanks for the memories, Sergio. We wish you all the best. pic.twitter.com/0gHVboqXPQ
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) December 15, 2021
It was an honour to compete against a player like you, @aguerosergiokun, one of the best players in the world. Best of luck to you and your family.
— Real Madrid C.F.
An extraordinary striker has retired from the game, but also a great team mate, a friend and a unique personality. Thanks and respect to an authentic Man City phenomenon.
— Vincent Kompany (@VincentKompany) December 15, 2021
I wish you nothing but the best legend. @aguerosergiokun #Aguerooooo pic.twitter.com/prYdYS7Wxi
One of the best strikers ever! Want to wish you all the best for the future legend. See you soon @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/DLsZ2aL6jg
— Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) December 15, 2021