Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara, who also had notable stints with FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich, has announced his retirement from football after the end of his contract with the English club.

During his prime, the Spaniard was considered one of the best midfielders in the world, renowned for his creative playmaking and elite technique on the ball.

"I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed it. Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way. See you soon," the 33-year-old posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

A product of FC Barcelona's famed La Masia youth academy, Thiago made his senior debut with the Spanish giants before moving to Bayern Munich in 2013. He was part of the German club's squad that won six trophies in 2020.

Thiago spent the final years of his career with Premier League club Liverpool, where he made significant contributions despite limited time on the field due to injuries.

Thiago struggled with injuries throughout his career

Thiago faced multiple injuries throughout his career, even in the early stages.

The two-time UEFA Champions League winner played only six minutes in his final season for Liverpool, returning from a hip surgery as a substitute in an away league game against Arsenal last February, which resulted in a 3-1 loss.

He sustained a muscle injury during the same match, putting a nail in the coffin of a career where he grappled with multiple tweaks and injuries to his muscles and knees.