Anthony Martial reacts as former Manchester United midfielder announces retirement

Former Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has announced his retirement from football.

The 34-year-old took to Instagram on Friday to make his announcement and thanks all of his fans, even those that booed him.

Schneiderlin played 475 games throughout his career, including 15 caps for France.

The Frenchman spent 18 months at Old Trafford after joining the club from Southampton in 2015 and won the FA Cup. After costing United £25 million, Schneiderlin made a total of 47 appearances for the Reds, most of which came during his first season under Louis van Gaal.

However, Schneiderlin found himself out of favour following the appointment of Jose Mourinho. That was why he left to sign for Everton in January 2017 before spending three-and-a-half years at Goodison Park.

Following stints at Nice and Western Sydney Wanderers, Schneiderlin signed for Turkish club Konyaspor August 2023 but his contract was terminated just nine days later. That was why he suddenly joined Greek outfit AE Kifisia last season before his contract expired in June.

In a video narrated by Schneiderlin and uploaded to Instagram, the former France international said: “Each person writes their own journey in life and each stage of their life is a chapter.

“For me, the chapter as a football player is coming to an end, which is why, before I start writing a new chapter in my professional career, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude.

“Thank you to Racing Club de Strasbourg, who gave me an opportunity at the age of five, and where I stayed until I was 18.

“Thank you to Southampton, I truly spent my best years with you. Thank you to Manchester United, one of the greatest clubs in the world.

“To Everton, thank you to OGC Nice, thank you to Sydney Wanderers, thank you to Kifisia FC.

“And my sister for always being there for me… and losing one or two teeth while playing goalkeeper just to make me happy.

“To my children, who helped me forget the pains and defeats. You three are my greatest victory.

“And I haven’t forgotten you, the fans. Thank you to everyone who followed, encouraged, applauded, idolised, booed, and even disliked me. You were a great source of motivation.

“All of you allowed me to fulfil my childhood dream, that dream that allows a person to wake up every day and live their passion.

“That dream that led me to wear the French national team shirt for a World Cup and a Euros.”

Several of Schneiderlin’s former team-mates responded to the post, wishing him well as he embarks on life as a retired footballer.

“Thanks for everything bro,” wrote former United star Anthony Martial, who became a free agent earlier this summer.

Schneiderlin also received warm messages from Juan Mata, Daley Blin, Timothy-Fosu Mensah, and other players he played with/against throughout his career.

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