Barcelona captain sends a heartfelt message to Samuel Umtiti after retirement announcement | OneFootball

Former Barcelona star and FIFA World Cup-winning defender Samuel Umtiti announced his retirement from the game last night in what came as a shocking revelation, given that he was just 31 years old.

The Frenchman’s decision, however, is understandable given the injury struggles he has been through in recent years.

Umtiti made the move to Barcelona in July 2016 to strengthen the defence in Luis Enrique’s side, and he went on to play six seasons for the Blaugrana.

While he was outstanding in his initial years at the club, injury troubles soon began to crop up and the player found himself neck deep in the crisis with no light at the end of the tunnel. From that point, his career unfortunately shifted to a downward trajectory.

During his time at Barcelona, Umtiti lifted two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey titles and two Spanish Super Cups in addition to winning the FIFA World Cup in Russia in 2018.

Ter Stegen’s message

Taking to his Instagram to send a message to the recently retired star, Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen congratulated the defender on his career and wished him the best in his new phase of life.

🔗 Instagram

“Samu, we shared unforgettable moments together, whether in the locker room or on the field. We celebrated great victories, and you were always there with your competitive spirit, positive energy, and wide smile,” he wrote.

“I wish you all the best in this new stage of your career, World Champion!” he elaborated.

Umtiti’s decision to retire at just 31 years of age was likely a consequence of multiple factors, including his age, fitness and situation as a free agent.

Umtiti was continually struggling for fitness owing to his knee injury in recent years and was without a club since leaving Lille at the end of last season.

That, coupled with his age, would have led him to the decision that it is best he hangs up his boots and progresses into a new stage of his life.