Alonso announces retirement

Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has put an end to speculation about his future by announcing that he will retire from the sport at the end of the season. 35 year old Alonso will be able to look back on a career filled with success, spanning over three of Europe's biggest leagues. 

After emerging as a star at Real Sociedad, Alonso signed for Liverpool in 2004. Alonso won the FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Community Shield during his time at Anfield, and was also a part of the "Miracle of Istanbul" squad that lifted the Champions League in 2005, after being 3-0 down at half time. 

The Spanish midfielder moved to Real Madrid in 2009, where he picked up more silverware, in the form of a La Liga title, two Copa Del Rey trophies and another Champions League winners medal. 

Following his spell in Madrid, Alonso moved to Bundesliga side Bayern Munich. In his two full seasons at the Allianz Arena so far, he has been part of the team that has won the league both times. Retiring Alonso looks set to go out on a high also, as Bayern sit top of the Bundesliga table this season and are through to the quarter finals of the Champions League. 

Internationally, Xabi Alonso has also had great success, winning the FIFA World Cup with Spain in 2010, and also the UEFA European Championships in 2008 and 2012.