Ex-Liverpool MF Lucas Leiva retires due to heart condition

Gremio midfielder Lucas Leiva has introduced his retirement from soccer due to a heart condition.

Lucas, 36, had not performed since December when a routine medical check-up confirmed a cardiac anomaly.

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The former 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 stated in Friday’s press convention. “I am announcing my retirement.

“It has been a troublesome interval. It’s the primary time I cry on this case. I’m grateful for all this profession time. I’m ending the place I’d like to, however not the best way I’d like to.

”I’m positive the brand new cycle will begin brilliantly too. Thanks for everybody’s endurance. I had lots of hope that I might 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.

“We’re all with you, Lucas Leiva,” Liverpool wrote in a social media post. “Congratulations on a superb profession and we want you the perfect in your subsequent chapter.”

He joined Lazio in 2017 and through his 5 seasons in Rome, he lifted the Coppa Italia and two Italian Super cups.

Gremio president Alberto Guerra has left the door open for Lucas to proceed on the membership in a special position.