Bayer Leverkusen's legendary Bender twins announce retirement | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed that both Lars and Sven Bender will retire from football at the end of the season.

The 31-year-old twins have both been plagued badly by consistent injuries of late and that is the reason for their surprising decision.

“Everyone who knows us knows that we give 100% every day,” the pair said in a joint statement.

“That was always the basic requirement for us. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly difficult for us to continuously access this with all the pain and physical problems from which we are suffering more and more.”

The brothers began their career together at 1860 Munich, with Lars leaving in 2009 to join Leverkusen, where he has remained until this day.

That same summer, Sven departed for Borussia Dortmund and after eight years at the Wesfalenstadion, left for Die Werkself to be reunited with his sibling.

“There are few players in the Bundesliga like Lars and Sven,” said Leverkusen director Rudi Völler.

“They represent football class, extreme professionalism and absolute reliability plus determination and commitment.”

Both men also had the honour of representing their country on several occasions, Lars picking up 19 Germany caps and scoring four times, with Sven making seven appearances.