Former Chelsea striker and Ivory Coast Captain Didier Drogba is expected to retire from play at the end of November when his contract expires with U.S. team Phoenix Rising.
The Ivorian national, who is part owner of the team, had announced earlier in 2018 that he would retire at the end of the season, at the United Soccer League Cup final in Louisville, Kentucky.
Phoenix Rising lost 1-0 to Louisville City FC at the Lynn Stadium on Thursday night, dashing Drogba’s hopes of bowing out with yet another trophy under his belt.
Fans of the U.S. club took to Twitter to bid farewell to the 40-year-old, who is well loved.
One of the club co-owners Berke Bakay took to Twitter to thank Drogba for his “amazing contributions to the beautiful sport.”
Brother @didierdrogba . The city of Phoenix and @PHXRisingFC are proud of your amazing contributions to the beautiful sport!
You have laid the foundation of something really special that we are all going to enjoy for many years to come!
— Berke Bakay (@berkebakay) November 9, 2018
Bakay recently spoke to the BBC during an interview, where he stated that Drogba would be moving off the pitch and into the boardroom when he retires.
Drogba is known for his glittering career and extensive humanitarian work. His 20-year achievements include four Premier League titles, four FA Cups, a UEFA Champions League victory, two Premier League Golden Boots, two-time Africa Player of the Year, the Turkish Super Lig, and the Turkish among others.
Without the fans, we’re nothing. We know not everyone could come out to Louisville but we know you were all with us tonight. Thank you for making this club more than just a soccer team. We can’t wait to be with our family again in 2019. #UpRising pic.twitter.com/uCbEzg93mF
— (x)-Phoenix Rising FC (@PHXRisingFC) November 9, 2018
