Some of our favorite players who we’ve been following for years could be retiring in 2023. Some players seem to get better with age, but some players know when it’s time for a new stage in their life. Now, there’s always a possibility that some of these players will continue their careers past 2023, but there’s also a chance that this will be their last hurrah. Some players could be hanging up their boots only for international games, and there are always players who announce an unexpected retirement. Without further ado,  here are some of your favorite players who could be retiring this year!

1. Giorgio Chiellini (Los Angeles FC)

At 38 years old, Giorgio Chiellini is considered one of the best defenders of his generation. He is known for his strength, aggressiveness, and his ability to mark a player. He won a record nine consecutive Serie A titles, and was named Serie A Defender of the Year three times. He now plays for LAFC, and it’s clear he’s entered the last chapter of his career. When his contract expires in 2023, it remains to be said if he will continue playing or not.

2. Joaquin Sanchez (Real Betis)

The Real Betis captain will be turning 42 this year, making him one of the oldest players in the world! In his prime years he was known for his speed, dribbling, and acceleration. With over 605 appearances, he’s the outfield player with the most appearances in La Liga history. Many won’t be surprised if Joaquin chooses to retire after this year.

3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (AC Milan)

There’s no doubt Zlatan has aged like fine wine. He’s played for some of the largest clubs in Europe including Juventus, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Inter Milan. The Swedish player has 34 trophies over his career that has spanned more than two decades. In July 2022, he signed a one-year extension with AC Milan, but with injuries taking a toll on his body, who knows if he’ll continue after the 2022/23 season.

4. Andres Iniesta (Vissel Kobe)

Iniesta had a glorious career with Barcelona, and joined the Japanese club Vissel Kobe in 2018. He has cemented his place in being one of the best soccer players of all time based on his skills during his active playing years. The midfielder extended his contract with Vissel Kobe until 2023, but this could be his final contract as a player.

5. Dani Alves (UNAM)

With over 47 official titles, Dani Alves spent most of his career with European giants: Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Juventus, and Sevilla. He’s regarded to be one of the greatest fullbacks of all time and was featured in the 2022 World Cup with the Brazilian national team. He signed a 1-year contract with Mexican club UNAM in 2022, but he may retire when the deal expires in 2023.

6. Pepe (FC Porto)

Pepe’s still a regular feature in FC Porto’s starting squad. However, there’s a likely chance that he’ll say farewell to his professional career at the end of the 2022/23 season. After taking part in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he decided to retire from international football, and his contract with FC Porto expires in the summer of 2023. Over his astounding career, he’s won three Champions League titles, three LaLiga titles, and three Copa del Reys, to name a few!

7. David Silva (Real Sociedad)

One of the best midfielders of his generation, David Silva spent the better part of his career playing for Manchester City. During this time, he won two FA Cups, five League Cups, and four Premier League titles. In 2020, he joined the Spanish club Real Sociedad, and helped them win the Copa del Rey soon after. This may be his last season, but he has certainly left his mark on the game.

8. Ashley Young (Aston Villa)

After playing for Manchester United, Inter Milan and Watford, Young returned to Aston Villa in 2021. He’s one of the oldest Premier League players but is still very active. He re-signed for a second season in 2022 but when the contract expires in 2023, will he retire? Many say he will, but I guess we’ll have to wait and see!

I think we can all say it’ll sad to see any of these players retire, but who knows, nothing’s been confirmed yet! Some may extend their contract for another year, or some might hang up their boots and take some time to relax. No matter what, we’re all grateful for the impact that they’ve had on soccer across the world! If you see a player on this list that has inspired you, go to SoccerCards.ca and get yourself something to remember them by. Apparel, a SoccerStarz figure, or even a signed jersey could be yours!