Ukraine legend Andriy Shevchenko has announced his retirement from football, and will now pursue a career in politics.

The 35-year-old has opted to bring an end to his illustrious playing career following Euro 2012, with two tournament goals in the 2-1 win against Sweden the striker’s final memorable moment.
The news was released by former club Dinamo Kiev, as the veteran bows out of the sport.

“Perhaps, I will shock everyone: my future has nothing to do with football. It is related to politics,” he told the Ukrainian club’s official website.


Andriy Shevchenko confirms retirement

Shevchenko will be remembered predominantly for his time at AC Milan, where he won one Scudetto, one Coppa Italia and one Champions League title with the Rossoneri over eight seasons – including one loan spell – where he netted 175 goals in 322 competitive games.

He had an ill-fated stint at Chelsea between 2006 and 2009, but still added FA Cup and League Cup triumphs to his medal collection, whilst he also won the Ukrainian Premier League five times.

Internationally the veteran striker represented his nation 111 times, scoring 48 goals. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2004.