Former Man United midfielder, Marouane Fellaini, ends football career after 18 years

Former Manchester United and Everton midfielder, Marouane Fellaini, has announced his retirement from active football, bringing an end to his 18-year career.

The 36-year-old Belgian, who has been playing with the Chinese club, Shandong Taishan, announced his retirement on his Instagram account on Saturday.

The midfielder had 87 caps for the Belgium national team and spent a total of 12 years in the Premier League.

He spent six years with Everton and the same number of years with Manchester United after he joined the Red Devils from Merseyside in 2013.

He wrote, “I am writing this post to announce that after a career of 18 years, I am retiring from professional football.

“But it all started long before these 18 years. I remember, like the day of yesterday, my first game as a child, the endless training sessions with my dad, my first selection for Standard de Liege, and my first selection for the Belgian national team. Time flies!

“What an incredible journey it has been! I am so grateful to have played the sport I love at the highest level. I am proud to have represented Standard in Belgium, Everton and Manchester United in the UK, and Shandong Taishan in China. It was an honor to have played for the Belgian national team at the Olympics of 2008, Euro 2016 and the World Cups of 2014 and 2018.

“I have played in front of the best fans in the world, and I want to take this moment to thank all of them for their unwavering support throughout my career. Your encouragement and passion have been a constant source of inspiration for me.

“All of this would have been impossible without my family, teammates, coaches, advisers and everyone who has been a part of my journey. Your love, guidance, support, and friendship have been invaluable. Thank you!

“As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I look forward to new challenges, but be assured, I will continue to support the beautiful game in any way I can. See you soon!”