Barcelona's Argentine forward Sergio Aguero on Wednesday announced his retirement from football due to a heart condition.
"I decided to stop playing professional football. It is a very difficult moment. The decision I made, I have taken it for my health," Aguero broke down in tears as he addressed a news conference at the Camp Nou.
He added that he did everything possible to have some hope but made this decision one week ago.
Aguero, 33, was admitted to a hospital for cardiological tests after complaining of chest pain during a Spanish La Liga match against Alaves on Oct. 30.
In November, Barcelona said Aguero would be unavailable for at least three months after the tests.
It was reported that Aguero faced cardiac arrhythmia.
His former clubs wish best for Aguero
Ageuro's former clubs Manchester City and Atletico Madrid wished him all the best following his decision to retire.
Aguero started his professional career in Argentina's Independiente, then he moved to Spain in 2006 to play for Atletico Madrid.
He won the 2010 UEFA Europa League title with Atletico Madrid.
"Thanks for the memories, Sergio. We wish you all the best," the La Liga club said on Twitter.
Aguero joined Manchester City in 2011, becoming the club's all-time leading goal scorer with 260 goals in 390 matches.
"Everyone at Manchester City would like to wish Sergio all the best in his retirement and to thank him once more for the incredible contribution he made to our football club during his ten years here," English Premier League side said in a statement.
He won 15 trophies, including five Premier League titles, one FA Cup, and six League Cups for Manchester City.
Aguero thanks his family, fans, teammates, coaches
Aguero then shared a long heartfelt message on Twitter to thank his family, fans and people around him during his football career.
"One of the many things that football taught me is that you can turn defeat into victory. This won't be any different. It's surely painful – but it's no tragedy," Aguero said.
"...My thoughts are not on the time I could have played on, they are on the wonderful 18 years I did get play."
He said "this amazing career will remain" with him.
"I keep the affection and care I received from each of the teams I played for when I was just a kid. And then at Independiente, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Barcelona, and Argentina's national team, always so dear to me."
Aguero said that the fans' support made him "stronger".
"I want to thank all the trainers, team-mates, colleagues, staff, physios and managers who allowed me to develop my career in the best of conditions. My special gratitude goes to my family and friends, who were always by my side. And to my agents, the same I've kept since I was 14 years of age, who accompanied me with utmost professionalism and honesty," he said, adding that he is now entering a new stage in his life.
