Top 5 Players That Already Retired in 2025
The football world has witnessed the retirement of several big players who have left a mark on the football in 2024 including Toni Kroos, Raphaël Varane and Andrés Iniesta. Here are five notable football players that already retired in 2025.
5. Shaun Williams
The Irish midfielder, who played at clubs like Millwall and Portsmouth, retired in February 2025 at 38 years. He plans to stay connected to football, possibly exploring opportunities in coaching. Williams was known for his versatility, vision, and passing ability, contributing significantly to his teams’ midfield stability. During his time at Millwall, he played a crucial role in their promotion to the Championship. His professionalism and football intelligence have been widely recognized, and he leaves the game with respect from peers and supporters.
4. Felipe Melo
The Brazilian midfielder retired at 41 after a distinguished career with clubs like Inter Milan, Juventus, and Galatasaray. Known for his tenacity and leadership, Melo has expressed interest in coaching, specifically in Brazil. Throughout his career, he was celebrated for his toughness and midfield dominance, earning domestic league titles in Turkey and Brazil. Melo’s international career with Brazil included participation in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. His passion and commitment on the field have left a lasting impression on teammates and fans alike.
3. Toby Alderweireld
The Belgian defender announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2024/2025 season. Alderweireld enjoyed a successful career with clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Royal Antwerp, while being a main part in Belgium’s national team defense. Known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and precise passing, he earned over 120 caps for Belgium and was part of the squad that finished third in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. If you want know why he retired from the Red-Devils national team back in 2023, check out this story. At the club level, Alderweireld was pivotal in Tottenham’s run to the UEFA Champions League final in 2019. His consistent performances have cemented his reputation as one of Belgium’s finest defenders.
2. Simon Kjær
Simon Kjær, the Danish center-back, officially retired from professional football on January 13, 2025, at the age of 35. He earned 132 caps for Denmark and played for top clubs like AC Milan, Sevilla, and Fenerbahçe during his career. Kjær was praised for his leadership, especially at UEFA Euro 2020, when he helped Christian Eriksen during a medical emergency. His club career took him across several European leagues, where he consistently performed as a reliable and composed defender. Kjær played a crucial role in AC Milan’s Serie A title victory in the 2021-2022 season, solidifying his legacy.
1. Marcelo
Marcelo, the Brazilian left-back famous for his attacking style and technical brilliance, announced his retirement from professional football on February 6, 2025, at the age of 36. During his illustrious 16-year career at Real Madrid, he won 25 trophies, including five prestigious UEFA Champions League titles and six Spanish La Liga championships. Representing Brazil on the international stage, Marcelo earned 58 caps, helped his country win the 2013 Confederations Cup, and played in two FIFA World Cups. After leaving Real Madrid in 2022, he briefly played for Olympiacos before returning to Fluminense, the club where he started and ended his football career. Highly regarded for his attacking runs, flair, and leadership, Marcelo remains one of the most iconic and successful left-backs in history.
