Pedro Rodríguez ends his 18-year professional career
In the sunny Camp Nou, where the most successful generation of FC Barcelona once triumphed, the 39‑year‑old winger Pedro Rodríguez stands alone on the sidelines and looks forward. The former 2010 world champion announced that after 18 years at the highest level he is ending his career.
England Success and Italian Journey
After his youth spell in Barcelona, where he won three Champions League titles and five Spanish championships together with Lionel Messi, Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, Gerard Piqué and Sergio Busquets, Pedro moved to Chelsea in the summer of 2015. Under manager Antonio Conte he lifted the Premier League trophy in 2017.
A year at AS Roma followed, before he moved to city rivals Lazio in 2018. He spent five seasons there until his contract was not renewed in the summer and he has been clubless since.
With the Spanish national team he celebrated the World Cup title in 2010 and the European Championship title in 2012. These successes rounded off his impressive career.
“I feel that this is the moment. The moment to take a step forward and begin a new chapter in my life. I leave proud for having lived my dream and for all the people who stood by my side to make it a reality. Thank you, football, for making me so happy,” the player wrote in a farewell post.
His trophy cabinet includes LaLiga (5 times), Champions League (3 times), Copa del Rey (3 times), Supercopa (4 times), Club World Cup (2 times) and UEFA Super Cup (3 times).
At 39, Pedro Rodríguez hangs up his football boots and thus ends an 18‑year career at the highest level.