Speaking in his farewell press conference, Athletic Club legend Aritz Aduriz said goodbye to the Basque club in front of his family and teammates on the pitch at San Mamés.
The 39-year-old striker announced his retirement from football on Wednesday.
“When I returned to training I realised I couldn’t help the team. The doctors told me that if I want to have a good quality of life then I have to have hip surgery as soon as possible.
I am happy because I am leaving Athletic in good hands. I am sure that this team will win the Copa del Rey. The Super Cup final is the most memorable match of my career with the club. We beat Messi’s Barcelona.
The person that I’ve learned most from, there have been so many people. It’s impossible to choose just one from so many coaches, players and people at the club. I can’t choose one person.
Going forward, I want to be part of the team and around the place until the end of the current season and help out where I can.”
