Xinhua, Buenos Aires :
Italian midfielder Daniele De Rossi confirmed his retirement from football on Monday, expressing his desire to spend more time with his family.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Italian denied that he had come to his decision because of injury problems or any other major issues.
“I just feel that I need more time with my family, I miss my daughter and she misses me, so I made my decision,” he said.
De Rossi came through the youth ranks at Roma and made his debut for the Serie A side in 2001.
In an 18-year stay with the Giallorossi, De Rossi made 616 appearances and scored 63 goals, winning two Coppa Italia titles. Following the retirement of club legend Francesco Totti in 2017, De Rossi assumed the captaincy of his hometown club.
The 37-year-old midfielder also earned 117 caps for Italy at senior level, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2006.
