Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm has confirmed that he will retire at the end of the season.
The 2014 World Cup winner is a graduate of the Bayern academy and has been at the club since the age of 11.
The 33-year old has seemingly rejected the role of sporting director at his club Bayern Munich, and will instead depart the Allianz Arena a year before his current deal is due to expire.
"I will retire at the end of the season," he told reporters.
Thank you for all 500 games, Captain! @philipplahm #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/x8oWKF5gwi
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) February 7, 2017
During his Bayern career, Lahm has won every club trophy available including Bundesliga titles, the 2013 Champions League and six German Cups.
He also won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2013.
The following year, Lahm captained Germany to World Cup glory in Brazil and retired from international duty at the age of 30 just after the tournament.
He had previously played in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, having made his international tournament debut at Euro 2004.
During his career, Lahm has been one of the outstanding full backs of his generation, capable of playing equally brilliantly on the left and right flank.
He also featured in midfield to good effect under Pep Guardiola's tutelage.
