Arjen Robben has announced his retirement from football today.

The former Netherlands international initially hung up his boots in 2019 before reversing the decision to return to his first club Groningen last season.

Injuries and the coronavirus pandemic derailed the winger’s second stint. He has now announced his retirement with an emotional message on Twitter

Beste voetbalvrienden,

Ik heb besloten om te stoppen met mijn actieve voetbalcarrière. Een heel moeilijke keuze. Ik wil iedereen bedanken voor alle hartverwarmende steun!

Groetjes, Arjen pic.twitter.com/aAEdxdL5tU

— Arjen Robben (@ArjenRobben) July 15, 2021

“I have decided to end my active football career,” he wrote. “It was a tough choice. I want to thank everyone for their heart-warming support!”

The club also issued a statement: “Everybody around FC Groningen hoped and wished that Robben would continue for another season – he has decided to stop after much deliberation.”

Arjen Robben stopt als voetballer van FC Groningen.

Jouw clubliefde, doorzettingsvermogen en passie is onbeschrijfelijk!