ANKARA
Alex de Souza, the former captain of Turkish team Fenerbahce, ended his professional football career after a league match against Bahia on Sunday.
Alex was playing for Brazilian Serie A club Coritiba, which won last Sunday’s match 3-2.
The 37-year old attacking midfielder thanked his fans during the ceremony held before the match and was given a plaque as well.
Fans in the stands cheered him during the match and saw their skipper off with thank you banners.
Flags of the teams that had played for previously, including Turkish club Fenerbahce, were also seen in the stadium.
After each goal, Coritiba players celebrated with their soon to be retired captain.
Subbed out in the 87th minute of play, the Brazilian veteran left the pitch in tears while fans applauded him.
In response to the fans' ovation, Alex saluted them after the match.
Starting his 19-year professional career at his hometown team Coritiba in 1995, Alex played for many Brazilian clubs such as Palmeiras, Flamengo and Cruzeiro.
In 2004, the Brazilian footballer was transferred to one of the biggest football clubs in Turkey, Fenerbahce, where he became one of the Istanbul giants' legends as well as a fan favorite.
Alex de Souza scored 421 goals in 1030 matches and produced a total of 363 assists over his career.
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