West Ham defender Pablo Zabaleta is reportedly ready to hang up his boots at the end of this season.
According to SPORT, Zabaleta plans to retire when his contract with West Ham expires in the summer.
Zabaleta at West Ham
Zabaleta joined West Ham on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City in summer 2017.
The ex-Argentina international penned a two-year contract and he has been a key component of West Ham’s back line ever since.
Defying his age, Zabaleta remains as the first-choice right-back in East London with consistent displays at the back.
Model professional
Throughout his time at West Ham, Zabaleta has conducted himself like a true professional.
His constant running, passion, leadership and desire put his team-mates to shame, considering his age.
And the 33-year-old acts as a mentor for the younger players, making him important on and off the field.
If Zabaleta does retire at the end of the season, it will be a major blow to West Ham.
Considering that right-back has been a problem position for a significantly long period of time now, bar this time with Zabaleta, his absence will be sorely missed.
Ryan Fredericks is his natural successor but he is still learning the ropes and West Ham fans will feel that Zabaleta still has more to give.
Below are some thoughts from Hammers fans on Zabaleta’s decision.
https://twitter.com/clem132/status/1062094881433239552
https://twitter.com/2b74009b5fbb40c/status/1062114609321132032
https://twitter.com/whputman21/status/1062155265338998785
https://twitter.com/olliebruton/status/1062114221247418368
https://twitter.com/leethept1/status/1062104132268576768
https://twitter.com/XxjayarexX/status/1062098839333691394
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