By Adedapo Adesanya
Argentine footballer, Sergio Aguero, has announced his retirement from the game due to a heart condition.
The 33-year-old goal-poacher moved to Barcelona from Manchester City in the summer on a free transfer, signing a two-year deal with a buyout clause of €100 million (£86 million).
Aguero made his official Barcelona debut in the 85th minute of the 3-1 win over Valencia in Camp Nou on October 17.
However, while playing against Alaves on October 30, he had to be substituted after receiving medical assistance on the pitch to treat chest pains and dizziness.
He was then taken to hospital for cardiac tests, after which he was ruled out for three months.
It later emerged that he may never be able to return to the pitch, forcing him to retire early from the sport.
“It is a very difficult moment. The decision I have made I have taken for my health, that is the main reason, because of the problem that I had a month-and-a-half ago,” a tearful Aguero said at a press conference at the Camp Nou in Barcelona on Wednesday.
“I was in good hands of the medical staff who have done their best and have told me the best thing would be to stop playing.
“So, I made that decision about a week ago and I want to tell everyone I did everything possible to have hope, but there wasn’t very much,” he added.
The striker is considered to be one of the best players to ever represent Manchester City, having scored 260 goals for the club in 390 appearances and won a host of honours, including five Premier League titles, six League Cup trophies and an FA Cup, among others.
He has since received support from players, legends, fans and clubs following his decision, many of whom took to social media to convey their get well wishes.
Dipo Olowookere