Sagnol Retires

This was one of those achy-breaky moments that we all knew was coming, right?

Willy Sagnol, who was stellar in les Bleus’ WC 2006 run, has retired. And not willingly. He’s leaving the game due to ongoing physical problems, especially an Achilles tendon that should have healed but never did.

This has been expected for awhile, but he made the official announcement today (Sunday) on Canal+.

Willy has long been one of my favorite players, and to see him go out this way stings. The players we love should go out at the top of their games, by choice, the way Zidane did. Not like this, and especially not with his last game for France coming in that humilating defeat against Netherlands in Euros. Willy deserves so much better.

But there may be something interesting waiting for him:

Sagnol has reportedly been offered the position of general manager of AS Monaco should he indeed call time on his career. He maintains close ties with the principality, having recently bought a house in the region and is the co-owner of a bar in the area and is believed to be keen to remain in football.

Let’s hope for a wonderful second career doing something he loves just as much. Good luck, Willy! Your fans still love you lots.

And even though I tend to find videos like this one a tad melodramatic, in the case it seems warranted.