Former Spain striker Raul Tamudo has announced his retirement from professional football.
The 37-year-old has spent the last two seasons with Segunda B side Sabadell, but a knee problem hampered his involvement during the 2014-15 campaign.
Tamudo, who represented Spain on 13 occasions between 2000 and 2007, started his professional career at Espanyol and is still the Catalan club's leading scorer, having netted 140 goals in 387 games during his time in Barcelona.
The striker has also represented Real Sociedad and Rayo Vallecano during a career that spanned from 1996 to 2015.
"I always wondered whether it would be difficult to announce my retirement as a professional footballer and now I know, at the very least, that it's a special feeling," he wrote in an open letter.
"This moment comes around for everyone but, frankly, I can't complain because I've enjoyed this sport as much as I possibly could. I'd like to thank all the coaches who guided me in my career and helped shape me as a person and footballer.
"I'd like to thank each and every one of my teammates because I've experienced lived unique and unforgettable moments with them. Thanks to all fans for treating me so, so well from the first minutes. They supported me through the bad times and enjoyed themselves during the good times."
Tamudo also sampled football in Mexico with Pachuca in 2012.
Matt Law
