Football: Bastian Schweinsteiger ends football career

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) - German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger ended his professional football career at the age of 35.

Germany's 2014 World Cup winner midfielder announced his retirement on social media late Tuesday.

"Saying goodbye as an active player makes me feel a little nostalgic, but I am also looking forward to the exciting challenges that await me soon,'' he said on Twitter.

"I will remain faithful to football. Many, many thanks for the time we spent together, I will always have a place for you in my heart," he added.

Schweinsteiger made 500 appearances for the Bundesliga club Bayern Munich between 2002 and 2015, with a legendary 68 goals and 100 assists.

He lifted eight Bundesliga titles and seven German cups with Bayern in addition to the 2013 Champions League title.

Schweinsteiger joined Premier League powerhouse Manchester United in 2015, producing two goals in 35 matches.

After he left the English club, Schweinsteiger signed a contract with the MLS club Chicago Fire on March 2017.

He helped his club move to playoffs in 2017 and was selected player of the season for Chicago Fire in 2018.

In his international career, Schweinsteiger was a vital part of his national team since his debut in 2004, scoring 24 goals in 121 appearances.