Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini has retired from football after a 22-year career.
The 39-year-old Chiellini’s decision was announced Tuesday through Los Angeles FC, his club for one season and part after 17 years at Juventus. Chiellini also announced his decision on social media, calling his career “the most beautiful and intense adventure of my life. “
Chiellini won nine consecutive Serie A titles at Juventus and was named the Italian league’s most productive defender three times. His club won five Coppa Italia and five Italian Super Cups during his tenure at the Turin powerhouse.
Chiellini went on to play a leading role in LAFC, which won the MLS Cup name and the Supporters’ Shield in 2022 before clinching the MLS Cup championship last weekend, losing to Columbus 2-1. LAFC also reached the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. League this year.
“Giorgio is the champion of his generation and an even better person,” LAFC general manager John Thorrington said. “Giorgio has exceeded the incredibly high expectations we had of him, on and off the court. His leadership, professionalism and character will leave him a lasting legacy at LAFC, and we are confident that our relationship with Giorgio will continue. “
Chiellini’s retirement was widely expected, even though he remained an effective starter at LAFC. He is believed to be contemplating a new career in coaching or management.
In his social media post, Chiellini wrote that “it is time to start new chapters, face new challenges and write further important and exciting pages of life.”
Chiellini also made 117 appearances for Italy, including two at the World Cup. He named the most productive defender in the tournament when the Azzurri won the European Championship in 2021.
Born in Pisa, Chiellini began his career in Livorno before Juventus signed him in 2004. He spent his first Serie A season on loan at Fiorentina before joining Juventus’ defence in 2005 and staying there until the summer of 2022.