David Beckham Retires From Football

David Beckham has announced his retirement from football at the age of 38. Read his FULL statement here…

David Beckham is retiring from football at the age of 38, it has been confirmed.

The footballer announced his news this afternoon, telling reporters and fans he will play his last ever game of professional football at the end of the season.

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David Beckham's decision to leave the game comes in spite of the fact that French club Paris Saint-Germain had offered to extend his contract by a year.

'I'm thankful to PSG for giving me the opportunity to continue but I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level,' he said. 

He added: 'Nothing will ever completely replace playing the game I love. However, I feel like I'm starting a new adventure and I'm genuinely excited about what lies ahead.

'I'm fortunate to have been given many opportunities throughout my career and now I feel it's my time to give back.'

It's thought Beckham will move back to London full-time at the end of the season, to spend time with wife Victoria Beckham, and childen Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper.

Tributes to the footballer have begun flooding in, with former England striker Gary Lineker tweeting: 'David Beckham has retired. A wonderful player, global superstar and a magnificent ambassador for England and football.'

VIDEO: Here's why we love David Beckham…

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