Jan Vertonghen announces his retirement from professional soccer

In Belgium, former defender Jan Vertonghen announced his decision to retire from all soccer at the end of the current season. The 37-year-old player, who has had a prolific career spanning more than 18 years, stated that he found it increasingly difficult to physically prepare for matches and training sessions, which led him to conclude that this season would be his last. Jan Vertonghen has been a central figure for Belgium, holding the record for the most appearances with the national team, and he played for several prominent clubs including Ajax, Tottenham, and Benfica. Vertonghen, who served as the captain of Anderlecht, reflected on his journey and the challenges he faced as he approached his retirement. He expressed a strong desire to give his all in the remaining games of the season, aiming to create lasting memories with fans and teammates. His career highlights include playing in the UEFA Champions League final with Tottenham and being a part of Belgium's Golden Generation, which saw the country qualify for three consecutive World Cups, achieving a remarkable third place in the 2018 tournament. As he prepares to bow out of professional soccer, Jan Vertonghen's contribution to the sport will be remembered fondly by fans across the world. He has made significant impacts not only on the field but also as a role model for aspiring soccer players. The Belgian football community will likely mourn his departure while celebrating his illustrious career. Furthermore, the announcement comes on the heels of his retirement from international soccer, which occurred shortly after Belgium's campaign in the 2024 European Championship. This succession of retirements signals the end of an era for both Jan Vertonghen personally and for Belgian football, where he played a pivotal role in its international successes over the last decade.