Toby Alderweireld will end his career at the end of the season

Belgian decided to leave football at the age of 35, completing his third season with Antwerp

Ajax , Atlético Madrid , Southampton , Tottenham , Al Duhail and Antwerp… these were Toby Alderweireld’s six clubs in his career spanning 16 years. The 35-year-old player announced, last Tuesday, his decision to retire from professional football at the end of the season, completing his third season with the Belgian club.

«Sometimes I look forward to retirement, but on the other hand, I have some ambitions in Antwerp and I still have some fuel in the tank. I will continue for another six months. Until then, I want to enjoy every moment. Ending with a title or playing a good season… that would be fantastic”, he said, in an interview with VRT, stating that he wants to spend more time with his family, one of the reasons why he also left his national team.

“I simply want to spend more time with my children. Physically, I’m still holding up and I’m going to miss football a lot, but at the same time I want to be there for my loved ones at the weekends,” explained the defender.