Football demands immense physical and mental effort, often leading to short careers. In 2024, several legendary players decided to retire, marking the end of an era for their clubs and countries. Among the biggest footballers who retired in 2024, their departures left a lasting impact on the game.
These footballers, who had shaped unforgettable moments in the sport, concluded their careers in 2024. Their retirements marked the end of a remarkable chapter in football history, and they will be remembered for their skill, leadership, and contributions to the game. Here are the top 5 biggest footballers who retired in 2024.
List 5 Biggest Footballers Who Retired in 2024
5. Thiago Alcantara
Thiago Alcantara, one of the most gifted midfielders of his generation, retired in July 2024 after leaving Liverpool. Although his career was hampered by injuries, his skill on the ball was never in question. Thiago was known for his vision, passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game. His retirement came after a successful spell at Liverpool, but injury struggles limited his appearances in the latter stages of his career.
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayern Munich | 235 | 31 | 37 |
| Barcelona | 100 | 11 | 20 |
| Liverpool | 98 | 3 | 6 |
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4. Leonardo Bonucci
After a stellar career, Leonardo Bonucci, one of the finest defenders in football history, retired in 2024. Known for his leadership on the field and his vocal presence, Bonucci played a vital role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph and Juventus’ dominance in Serie A. His career at Juventus was remarkable, with numerous trophies, including nine Serie A titles, and his impact on both club and country will be long remembered.
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juventus | 502 | 37 | 10 |
| AC Milan | 51 | 2 | 1 |
3. Ryan Bertrand
Ryan Bertrand, one of the biggest footballers who retired in 2024, was a key part of Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League-winning team. After leaving Leicester City, he spent his final years without a club, marking the end of an era. Despite his quiet retirement, Bertrand’s legacy as a reliable left-back and his role in Chelsea’s historic victory will never be forgotten.
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southampton | 240 | 8 | 17 |
| Norwich City | 60 | 0 | 2 |
| Chelsea | 57 | 2 | 2 |
2. Joe Hart
Joe Hart, one of the biggest footballers who retired in 2024, played a key role in Manchester City’s first Premier League title in 2012. Known for his shot-stopping ability and confidence, Hart became a fan favorite, particularly at City and later at Celtic. Despite falling out of favor at City under Pep Guardiola, he proved his quality at Celtic before retiring on his own terms. His retirement marks the end of an era for one of the sport’s most iconic goalkeepers.
| Club | Matches | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester City | 348 | 347 | 137 |
| Celtic | 153 | 145 | 64 |
| Shrewsbury Town | 55 | 63 | 15 |
1. Marouane Fellaini
Marouane Fellaini, one of the biggest footballers who retired in 2024, hung up his boots in February after five years in the Chinese Super League. Known for his iconic hairstyle and aerial ability, Fellaini was a key figure at Everton and Manchester United. His work rate and impact in key moments made him a fan favorite. His retirement marked the end of an impressive career, making him one of the biggest footballers who retired in 2024.
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everton | 177 | 33 | 24 |
| Manchester United | 177 | 22 | 9 |
| Shandong Taishan | 141 | 50 | 14 |
| Standard Liege | 84 | 12 | 6 |
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