Pep Guardiola and Xavi congratulate Rafa Marquez on his retirement | OneFootball

Rafa Marquez, one of only three players to ever play in five World Cups, has announced his retirement.

The Mexico defender, whose career spanned an unbelievable 22 seasons, took to social media to announce the end of his career.

“They have been 22 years in which I have felt very satisfied, having made many sacrifices, efforts, mistakes, wise choices and, as a result of them, having caused sadness, sometimes disappointment, but mainly, many joy,” Marquez said in the message.

“I want to thank all fans who have shown me their affection over the years. They are and will keep being my incentive to keep giving my best, whatever I do and wherever I am.”

The 39-year-old last played at Atlas in Liga MX, and, according to investigators in the US, one of Mexico’s greatest ever footballers was alleged to have participated in a drug cartel.

However, his legal troubles were not on the minds of his former managers and team-mates today, with former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola and team-mate Xavi taking to social media to congratulate the star on an incredible career.

“You left an enormous example and imprint on Barcelona,” Xavi said. “Congratulations on your spectacular career.”

“One of the most talented and competitive center-backs in the last two decades and in the history of Barcelona,” read a tweet on Guardiola’s Twitter.

The former defender had temporarily put his career on hold to fight the drug trafficking charges and was unable to wear sponsorship on his training gear with the national team because of his situation.

Marquez is expected to be named sporting president at his first (and last) club Atlas in coming days.

The Mexican legend won two Champions League trophies, four La Liga titles, and one Club World Cup at Barcelona.