Former Premier League star announces shock retirement aged 37 as fans hail ‘real legend’

A FORMER Premier League icon has announced his retirement from professional football.

Ex-Liverpool cult hero Ryan Babel has hung up his boots at the age of 37.

PA:Empics Sport

Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has retired from professional football[/caption]

The cult hero has played for some of Europe’s top clubsGetty

The 69-time Netherlands international has called it quits after playing his last professional game for Turkish side Eyuspor back in 2023.

Taking to social media, Babel announced that it was time to bring an end to his career that has seen him play for the likes of Liverpool, Galatasaray and Ajax.

He wrote: “As I look back on my career it feels surreal to think about how far I have come.

“From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it’s been a journey full of unforgettable moments.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I never imagined.

“Football has been more than just a job, it’s been a way of life: the discipline, the sacrifice, the passion, the glory and even the pain have all played a part in my development both on and off the field.

“I am filled with gratitude for this amazing journey I have had. Football gave me everything I dreamed of and so much more.

“Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, fans and even the media who have been part of this incredible adventure. This game will forever be in my heart. Thank you.”

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Babel enjoyed three spells with Ajax after graduating from the club’s academy[/caption]

Reuters

The Dutchman represented his nation 69 times[/caption]

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Babel managed 146 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 times and registering 18 assists.

While he also played 47 Champions League games for the Reds, Ajax, Besiktas and Galatasaray – scoring nine times in Europe’s elite competition.

Babel also had a brief spell at Fulham during the latter stages of his career, playing under both Claudio Ranieri and Scott Parker.

On the International stage, Babel represented the Netherlands 69 times, making the squad for both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

The fan favourite retires having won two Eredivisie titles, two Dutch cups, one Turkish league title and one Turkish super cup.

Fans have hailed the hero online following his announcement.

One wrote: “Congratulations on an amazing career!”

While another added: “Literally one of the best wingers I saw play for Liverpool”.

And a third labelled Babel as a “real legend”.

Babel returned to the Premier League with Fulham in 2019Getty Images - Getty