Bayern Munich Alumni: Arjen Robben retires from professional football

Arjen Robben has officially announced his definitive retirement from professional football.

The 37-year-old Dutch winger had originally retired after leaving Bayern Munich in the summer of 2019, but had made a comeback a year later to help his boyhood club FC Groningen. However, injuries kept Robben from playing a proper season in his home country, and he was limited to just seven appearances all year.

Robben released a statement saying: “Looking back on the past season, I have to come to the honest conclusion that the number of match minutes was disappointing.”

“I knew in advance that this could happen, but I took up the challenge and gave everything to make it work. And not only me, everyone within the club and in my immediate environment has helped and supported me at all times. I am also not unaffected by the warm reactions and support from all football fans.”

It was heartwarming to see Robben suit up for his home team one more time in an attempt to help them, and it was also sad to see that it didn’t work out too well. However, Robben’s legacy will not be tarnished by this as he hangs up his boots once and for all.

Robben has had a star-studded career up until this point, beginning his career in the Netherlands with Groningen and PSV Eindhoven before moving to Chelsea. After three years in London, he swapped one capital city for another as he transferred to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Two seasons later, he left Spain and arrived in Bayern Munich, a move he described as the best decision of his life. He spent the next ten years wearing the number 10, and establishing himself as a true Bayern legend. The highlight of his career came in 2013, when he scored the winning goal against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League final.

Robben also had a highly successful international career, being capped by the Netherlands 96 times, and leading his country to two consecutive World Cup semifinals.

We at BFW wish Arjen a blissful retirement, and hope for a possible reunion in Munich one day!