Malaga striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has called time on his brilliant football career that featured spells with Real Madrid and Manchester United.

The former Dutch international has suffered a difficult year with Malaga since his arrival last summer, scoring just five times in 32 appearances.

However, he did help the Andalusians to their first ever top-four finish and qualification for next seasons Champions League.

Van Nistelrooy told a press conference on Monday: “Yesterday was my final game as a professional footballer. I wanted to play in the Champions League, but it is the moment to leave.

“I have arrived at my physical limit and I can’t play at the maximum level. I couldn’t have had a better send-off than this. I feel happy that I am the one taking this decision. I would like to thank Malaga, the technical and medical staff for an unforgettable year.

“I am proud to have won collective and individual titles, but my greatest satisfaction was to be able to work day after day, year after year.”

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