Marcelo Salas retires from football

Jonathan Roorda - 28 November 2008 23:29

Marcelo Salas

SANTIAGO (SW) - Chilean legend Marcelo Salas has announced his retirement from professional football after 15 years at the highest level.

Salas began his career at Universidad de Chile in 1993 and represented River Plate, Lazio Roma and Juventus since. After his spell in Europe, the striker returned to River and eventually moved back to his old club, Universidad.

Salas was also important for the Chilean national team, with 37 goals in 71 games. Those numbers are enough to earn the player the title of all-time topscorer.

Last Sunday, Salas scored twice in a play-off match against Cobreloa but this wasn't enough for Universidad to advance to the next round. Not much later, the 33-year-old told the board about his decision.

Chairman Federico Valdés revealed that Salas will remain active at the club.