Chelsea Legend Didier Drogba Confirms Retirement from Playing

Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has officially called time on his illustrious playing career at the age of 40. 

The Ivorian, who last played for USL Championship side Phoenix Rising, told BBC World Service's Sportshour (h/t BBC Sport): "After 20 years, I have decided to put an end to my playing career."

Drogba also co-owns Phoenix Rising, whom he helped to the USL Cup final on November 8. 

They lost the match 1-0 to Louisville City, with the veteran striker playing all 90 minutes of what proved to be his final game:

In two spells at Stamford Bridge, Drogba netted 164 goals in 381 games for Chelsea and won four Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the 2011-12 UEFA Champions League.

During his first spell in west London, from 2004 to 2012, he played a key role under manager Jose Mourinho as Chelsea established themselves as one of Europe's top clubs.

He won the Premier League's Golden Boot award in 2006-07 and 2009-10, and he will be remembered as one of the most fearsome strikers of the modern era in English football.

Drogba also won the 2012-13 Turkish Super Lig title with Galatasaray and made 104 appearances for Ivory Coast, appearing at three FIFA World Cups.