http://tinyurl.com/3z7tn7f Tearful Ivan de la Pena announces retirement from football Former Barcelona midfielder says his body can no longer cope with the physical stresses of the professional game An emotional Ivan de la Pena broke down in a press conference on Thursday as he announced his retirement from football, stating that injuries have eventually forced him to quit the game. The 35-year-old Espanyol midfielder, who has barely featured for the club in the past two seasons due to physical problems, burst into tears as he told the media why he has decided to step aside. "One does not want to choose the end, I would have liked to have played for longer, but it could not be. We must look ahead. My head wanted to carry on [playing] but my body has said enough," De La Pena admitted. "Football is the greatest, and I really enjoyed it. It has given me everything. I would have liked the last few years to have gone better, still it helped me grow as a footballer and as a person." Asked whether he would consider coaching in future, the former Barcelona man stated it was unlikely, but promised he would remain close to the game. "I cannot see myself as a coach, but I would like to stay tied to the world of football, and also now with my family, who deserve some time." De La Pena has made just one substitute appearance this season in which he played 30 minutes for the Barcelona-based club. During his career he starred for Barca, Lazio, Olympique Marseille, and the Spain national side, and was given the nickname 'The Little Buddha' due to his shaven head and diminutive frame. --

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