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Eric Abidal to end playing career this weekend

Former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal reveals that he will retire from professional football this weekend.

Defender Eric Abidal has announced that he plans to retire form professional football at the end of this week.

The 35-year-old, who currently plays for Greek side Olympiacos, was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2011, but the France international has managed to continue his career into his mid-thirties.

However, at a press conference on Friday, Abidal told reporters: "I've taken the official decision to bring an end to my professional career. It's solely due to personal reasons.

"I've always played at a good level. I thank the president for his support. I'm proud to have worn the Olympiacos shirt during my time here and I will always support them.

"I want to say hank you to the coaches that I have had and to the medical staff who have helped me, because without them, I wouldn't be here now."

During his career, Abidal has amassed 445 appearances as well as winning seven league titles and two Champions League trophies.

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Darren Plant
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Olympiakos manager Michel Gonzalez gestures on the touchline against Manchester United during their Champions League match on February 25, 2014
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