Retiring Flamengo star Diego Ribas admits 'passion for playing' has gone | OneFootball

Flamengo veteran Diego Ribas has explained the decision to hang up his boots at the age of 37.

The midfielder played his final game on Saturday, lasting just under an hour before being replaced by Thiago Maia as the Rubro-Negro finished their Brasileirão season with a 2-1 home defeat to Avaí.

“I had proposals in Brazil,” the former Porto, Werder Bremen and Juventus playmaker said after bidding farewell at the Maracanã.

“Some were made public through the invitation of the president, coaches and directors, but in my life I live on enthusiasm.

“When I renewed my contract with Flamengo, I had already decided that it would be my last year at the club.

“I gave myself these months to see if something would come up that would make my eyes sparkle. In the proposals that I had, the passion for which I live did not arouse.

“I can’t go to another club and not give away what I am. I would not be correct. I could go anywhere and let another year go by, but I can’t. So that was the decision. If I’m not feeling it, it’s time to stop.”

Since joining the Mengão in 2016, Diego helped win 12 major trophies. His haul includes two Brasileirão titles and two Copa Libertadores successes.