Demichelis announces retirement

Former Argentina, Bayern Munich and Manchester City centre-back Martin Demichelis has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 36-year-old re-joined Malaga for second spell after being released by Espanyol in January and has made 12 appearances in what will prove to be his final season in La Liga.

Demichelis won 51 caps for Argentina, scoring twice, and announced his decision at a news conference yesterday.

"I want to be honest, I lost the strength in my legs and my concentration," he said. "But I want to give thanks to football.

"I speak from my heart when I say I thank you all for being here and showing me the appreciation.

"It was a dream to finish my career at Malaga, it is a club that has always had a special place in my heart and it is an honour to end my playing days here.

"Now I look forward to being a Malaguista forever and supporting the club from the stands."

Demichelis could now bring down the curtain on his career when Real Madrid visit La Rosaleda this weekend in pursuit of La Liga title glory.