Football fans around the world were left in shock as legendary Premier League player David Silva, 37, announced his retirement from the sport.

The former Manchester City star’s decision came after a devastating blow during pre-season training with Real Sociedad, where he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury that would ultimately force him to hang up his boots.

In an emotional tribute to the game that defined his life, Silva released a heartfelt farewell video titled “Thank you so much football.”

The poignant clip takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through his incredible career, showcasing his early skills as a young prodigy and his evolution into a true football maestro.

Throughout the video, he expressed his gratitude to the sport and the people who became like family to him—his beloved colleagues.

Silva’s retirement came as a surprise to many, given that he had recently signed a contract extension in May, which was set to run until the end of the upcoming season.

However, the injury proved to be insurmountable, leading him to make the difficult decision to retire early.

His return to Spain in 2020, signing with Sociedad from Manchester City on a free transfer, marked the end of his illustrious decade-long journey in England.

During his time with Real Sociedad, Silva made 93 appearances, scoring seven goals, and providing 18 assists, significantly contributing to the club’s successful qualification for the Champions League last season.

His impact at Manchester City remains unparalleled, with 436 appearances for the club, netting an impressive 77 goals and delivering 140 assists, earning him a special place in the hearts of City fans.

Beyond his club achievements, Silva was an integral part of the Spanish national team, earning 125 caps and scoring 35 goals during his international career.

Notably, he played a pivotal role in Spain’s victorious campaigns during the World Cup and the Euros, etching his name in football history.