Giorgio Chiellini, the iconic center-back renowned for his contributions to Juventus and the Italian national team, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39.
Chiellini concluded his illustrious career with two years at MLS side LAFC, clinching an MLS Cup in 2022 and reaching the recent cup final against Columbus Crew, which turned out to be his final professional game. In a statement on X, he expressed his sentiments about his football journey.
“You have been the most beautiful and intense journey of my life,” he conveyed. “You have been my everything. With you, I have traveled a unique and unforgettable path. But now it is time to start new chapters, face new challenges, and write further important and exciting pages of life.”
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Chiellini’s senior football career began at his hometown club Livorno in the 2000/01 season. Subsequently, he moved to Serie A side Fiorentina in 2004/05, where his standout performances at left-back attracted the attention of Juventus. Joining Juventus in the summer of 2005, Chiellini became a key figure, especially after the club’s Serie B stint due to the Calciopoli scandal.
Under the management of Claudio Ranieri, Chiellini’s transition to the center of defense during Juve’s return to Serie A elevated his game. Over the 17 years in Turin, he solidified his status as a club legend and one of the premier defenders of his generation.
Teaming up with his renowned ‘BBC’ partners, Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli, Chiellini secured an impressive nine consecutive Serie A titles between 2011 and 2020, along with five Coppa Italia victories.
Internationally, Chiellini captained Italy to a historic triumph in Euro 2020, delivering a defensive masterclass in the final against England at Wembley Stadium.