Gremio midfielder Lucas Leiva has introduced his retirement from soccer because of a coronary heart situation.
Lucas, 36, had not performed since December when a routine medical check-up confirmed a cardiac anomaly.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, extra (U.S.)
The previous Liverpool participant had solely returned to Gremio, the membership the place he started his profession, in July 2022 after 15 years enjoying in Europe.
“I thank Gremio for all the support in these three months,” an emotional Lucas mentioned in Friday’s press convention. “I am announcing my retirement.
“It has been a troublesome interval. It is the primary time I cry on this case. I am grateful for all this profession time. I am ending the place I would prefer to, however not the best way I would prefer to.
”I am certain the brand new cycle will begin brilliantly too. Thanks for everybody’s persistence. I had a whole lot of hope that I may reverse it, however that was not the case. My well being comes first.”
Lucas, who made 24 appearances for Brazil, joined Liverpool in 2007 from Gremio.
He racked up 345 games for the Reds in his 10 seasons at the club.
Lucas was named Liverpool’s Young Player of the Year in 2010 and Fans’ player of the year in 2011.
He joined Lazio in 2017 and through his 5 seasons in Rome, he lifted the Coppa Italia and two Italian Tremendous cups.
Gremio president Alberto Guerra has left the door open for Lucas to proceed on the membership in a unique function.