'I leave proud' - Barcelona and Chelsea legend Pedro retires from football at 39

Pedro Rodriguez is hanging up his boots. The 39-year-old winger, who starred for Barcelona and Spain, shared the news in a video on social media. That closes a career that took him from Barcelona to Chelsea, Roma and Lazio. Looking back on his years at Barcelona, he called being part of "the best Barça in history" a privilege. He said that team won everything and amazed the world, and he added that his heart will always belong to Barça. [1] [2]

His farewell was mostly a long thank-you. Pedro said he feels "it's the right time" to stop. He told his former teammates that they, not the trophies, were the best part of his career. He also thanked the clubs and coaches who gave him a chance, the fans, his children, his family and his friends. He ended with a note to the game itself: "Thank you, football, for making me so happy." [1] [2]

Barcelona answered his post by saying he will always be part of the club's history. The club thanked him for what he gave to football and wished him well in his next chapter. In 321 matches for Barcelona, Pedro scored 99 goals and won 20 titles. Those included five La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey crowns and three Champions League titles. He was also a member of a Spain squad that won the World Cup. [1] [2]