Sergio Romero was a fan favourite at Manchester Unitedplaceholder image
Sergio Romero was a fan favourite at Manchester United | Getty Images
The former Man Utd goalkeeper was a popular figure at the club despite his limited role.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Sergio Romero has announced his retirement from football.
The 39-year-old has been without a club since he was released by Argentinos Juniors last year and has decided to call an end to his playing career. It is understood the Argentine received offers to continue his career, but did not want to relocate his family at this stage of his life. He is expected to pursue a career in coaching, having previously expressed an interest in doing so.
Romero made 61 appearances during six years at Old Trafford, in which he was largely second-choice to David de Gea. Despite his limited opportunities, the shot-stopper kept 39 clean sheets for United and played a key role when they won the Europa League under Jose Mourinho back in 2017. He also won the FA Cup, League Cup and Community Shield during his time in Manchester.
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Sergio Romero announces retirement
Manchester United signed Sergio Romero from Sampdoria in 2015 and he went on to enjoy a decent career at the club as a back-up goalkeeper. He returned to Italy with Venezia after he was released in 2021, before he finished his club career back in Argentina with Boca Juniors and then Argentinos Juniors.
Romero also enjoyed a successful international career and remains the most-capped goalkeeper for Argentina with 96 appearances. He was part of the side that won gold at the 2008 Olympics and played in two World Cups and three Copa America tournaments. He started in goal as Argentina lost the 2014 World Cup final to Germany in extra time.
A statement from the Professional Footballers' Association read: "Former Manchester United and Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero has announced his retirement from football. After beginning his professional career with Racing Club, Romero moved to Europe where he enjoyed spells with AZ Alkmaar and Sampdoria before joining Manchester United.
"During his time at Old Trafford, he played an important role as the Red Devils lifted the UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, EFL Cup and FA Community Shield.
"On the international stage, Romero became Argentina’s most capped goalkeeper, representing La Albiceleste 96 times. He featured at both the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups, where his penalty shootout heroics helped send Argentina to the final in Brazil.
"Romero concluded his 20-year professional career back in his homeland with spells at Boca Juniors and Argentinos Juniors. Wishing you all the best in your retirement, Chiquito."
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