D. De Rossi ends professional career

Legendary Italian footballer Daniele De Rossi announced an important decision.

At the age of 36, the defender decided to retire professionally and ended his player career that lasted almost two decades.

Having played 616 official matches for the "Roma" club, the Italian spent the last six months in the Argentinian "Boca Juniors" team.

As the 2006 World Cup champion stated, he now intends to spend more time with his family.

An absolutely fantastic football career comes to an end.

Thank you for so many incredible memories, Daniele.

Daniele De Rossi was one of the best tacklers in the game. (via @ChampionsLeague)

Daniele De Rossi has announced his retirement from professional football. (@OfficialASRoma @BocaJrsOficial)

622 Games, 117 Caps, 85 Goals, 59 Assists, 2x Coppa Italia, 1x Supercoppa Italiana, 1x FIFA World Cup. End of an era.