Ex-Liverpool and Lazio midfielder Lucas Leiva has retired from football due to a heart problem. He discovered in December after routine tests at his most recent club Lazio.
Leiva, who started his career in Gremio, re-joined the Porto Alegre-based club after a 15-year journey in Europe. He hoping to play out the final days of his career in his home country. However, his return was suspended in December due to his heart condition. This forced him to take a break from football.
Leiva hopes to recover from the condition, and play a few more years of football. He has to to announce his premature retirement after failing to do so.
Liverpool’s official Twitter account announced his decision. Leiva broke down in tears as he expressed gratitude to Gremio for their support.
“I want to thank Gremio for all the support they have given me in these three months. Today I am announcing my retirement. It has been a difficult period and I think this is the first time you have seen me cry.”
Leiva
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