Eric Abidal Retires from Football: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

Former France international and Barcelona club legend Eric Abidal officially announced his retirement on Friday, two days after playing his final match for Olympiakos, a 2-0 win over Panionios.

The 35-year-old announced the news during a press conference, according to Barcelona's official Twitter feed:

After the announcement, Abidal was honoured by former Barcelona team-mate Thierry Henry on Twitter:

The news didn't come as a shock after Olympiakos manager Michel told reporters from Nova TV that Wednesday's match was Abidal's last, per FIFA.com: "Michel told Nova TV that Abidal 'had made his decision to leave Olympiacos two months ago. I am proud to have been his coach this season. Personal decisions are above those of the pitch.'"

A powerful and athletic defender capable of playing both in the centre and on the left wing, Abidal was a journeyman in the French Ligue 1 before moving to Barcelona in 2007.

With the Catalans, he established himself as one of the most versatile defenders in all of Europe, winning four La Liga titles, two Champions League titles and two Copa del Reys.

Manu Fernandez/Associated Press

In March 2011, the club announced Abidal had a tumor in his liver that would require immediate surgery. He fought back and was able to start the Catalans' Champions League final at Wembley Stadium, and Carles Puyol gave him the captain's armband and allowed him to lift the trophy after the 3-1 win over Manchester United.

Years later, Puyol would tell Marca it was the proudest moment of his career: "The moment when Abidal lifted the Champions League trophy because of what it meant, because he fought while he was in the team, was amazing. It's very hard to explain. He deserved it the most."

The problems with his liver continued, however, and in 2012, he was forced to undergo a transplant. Once again, he fought back and returned to the pitch against RCD Mallorca in April:

He left the Blaugrana for AS Monaco in 2013, receiving a standing ovation before his final match against Malaga:

His battle to return to the pitch after multiple setbacks inspired many, including Bookie Insiders:

"

Éric Abidal Retires. You've been an inspiration to us all pic.twitter.com/QChApbBWuq

— Bookie Insiders™ (@Bookieinsiders) December 18, 2014"

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu unsurprisingly told reporters Abidal was welcome to return to the club anytime when he heard of his imminent retirement, per Barcastuff:

"

Bartomeu (president): "Abidal could retire soon? We always told Eric the doors of the club are open for him. If he wants, he can return."

— barcastuff (@barcastuff) December 10, 2014"

Abidal's glittering career in the Blaugrana shirt and his willingness to battle against a terrible illness will only inspire the next generation of talented youngsters coming through the La Masia academy, and it's not surprising to see him join friend and former team-mate Puyol in the club's infrastructure.

The Frenchman always belonged at Barcelona, and while his playing days may be over, the team and the city will undoubtedly welcome him back with open arms.