From Zidane to Gerrard: Legends who bid farewell to their clubs in May

Updated: May 23, 2020 12:35:43 pm

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May 7, 2006 proved to be an emotional day for Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid fans, as the French legend played his final game in front of the home fans at the Santiago Bernabeu before retiring after that summer’s World Cup. Substituted in the dying moments of Real Madrid’s 3-3 draw with Villarreal, Zidane got on the scoresheet that night and was treated to repeated standing ovations and crowd affection following the final whistle. (Source: AFP/File Photo)

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Alessandro Del Piero made his final appearance for the Juventus on May 13, 2012. Both the player and the fans waved tearful goodbye to each other as 19 years of loyalty both during the highs and lows finally bowed out at the very top. (Source: AP)

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On May 6, 2014, Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs ended his appearance record for the Red Devils at 963 games. However, he remained loyal to the club and served in the coaching development team as Louis Van Gaal's right-hand man. During his time, Giggs won 34 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles. (Source: AP/File Photo)

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Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez bid farewell to the club on May 23, 2015 after spending 17 years, in which he won 23 trophies. Such was his influence in Camp Nou that then Barcelona coach Luis Enrique said that there will never be another player like Xavi at the club. (Source: Twitter/FCBarcelona)

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Steven Gerrard will always be remembered as a Liverpool legend with his nine trophies but unlike others in the list, his departure from the club came in a cruel manner. After losing his final match at Anfield to Crystal Palace, he bowed out after a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of Stoke City on May 24, 2015. (Source: AP/File Photo)

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AS Roma's Francesco Totti made his final appearance for the Serie A side on May 28, 2017, ending a 25-year long story. Totti's Roma had then secured a thrilling 3-2 win against Genoa, but the match will always be remembered for the Italian's farewell, which saw the entire stadium shed tears. (Source: Reuters/File Photo)

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On May 20, 2018, Andres Iniesta drew curtains on his illustrious Barcelona career. The midfielder left the contest sobbing as he handed the captain's armband to Lionel Messi after being substitued for the final time in the 82nd minute against Real Sociedad. The 2010 World Cup winner has since moved on to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in the J1 League. (Source: AP/File Photo)