Patrick Vieira retires from football

[emezico]

Patrick Vieira has described the end of his playing career as a sad day but is looking forward to taking up a new role off the pitch with Manchester City.

The 35-year-old Frenchman hung up his boots today, 18 years after making his debut for Cannes, following a glittering career that has brought him World Cup and European Championship winners' medals as well as seven domestic titles and five FA Cups.

Vieira, who was released by Man City at the end of last season, has accepted a newly-created position as the club's football development executive and will help nurture young players among other responsibilities.

The former midfielder told www.mcfc.co.uk: "It was something I was preparing for in my head and I think it was the right time.

"It's a sad day and a sad moment but overall I've enjoyed the years I've spent in football. Football has brought me a lot.

"I think it will be difficult to find a job that will give me as much satisfaction as football has given me but I just want to give back to society and give back to football what it has given to me. And what a fantastic club for me to do it," Vieira said.