Pedro Rodríguez ends his career with an emotional video at Camp Nou

The former Spanish international Pedro Rodríguez announced his retirement from football at 39 years old this Wednesday through an emotional video recorded at the Camp Nou, the stadium where his career began, and said: “I return to where it began to close a wonderful chapter”. The message, posted on his social media, traces the key moments of his career.

Barcelona and the years of glory

Rodríguez arrived at the Barcelona first team at 20 years old coming from Tenerife and established himself under the management of Pep Guardiola. “Being part of the best Barça in history was a privilege. We won everything and amazed the world”, he said. With the club he won five league titles, three Champions Leagues, three Copa del Rey trophies, four Spanish Super Cups, three European Super Cups and two Club World Cups.

Moreover, he became the first footballer to score in every club competition contested by his team in a single season: league, Copa del Rey, Champions League, Spanish Super Cup, European Super Cup and Club World Cup. That achievement highlights his ability to influence any competitive setting.

Last steps and farewell

In 2015 he left Barcelona to sign for English Chelsea, and then continued his career at Roma before joining Lazio in the 2021‑2022 season. “Italy has touched my heart. I arrived as a veteran and they treated me like a son”, he said. Approximately three months after becoming a free agent from Lazio, his contract expired on 30 June.

During the 2024‑2025 campaign he scored ten goals in Serie A and four in the Europa League, showing that he remains an offensive reference. In total, he amassed 204 goals in 841 matches and won 25 titles, including a World Cup (2010), a European Championship (2012), three Champions League trophies and a Premier League. His trophy cabinet also includes five Spanish league titles, an English FA Cup and four Spanish Super Cups.

With the Spanish national team, Rodríguez was crowned world champion in South Africa 2010, starting in the final against the Netherlands, and was part of the Euro 2012 squad. “My heart will always be culé”, he recalled, emphasizing his permanent bond with the club.

In the final video, the former striker said: “I feel that this is the moment. The moment to take a step forward and start a new phase of my life. I leave proud to have lived my dream”. He thanked football for the happiness it gave him and closed with an emotional “Thank you football for making me so happy”.