Former All White Marco Rojas has announced his retirement from professional football.
The 33-year-old played 155 matches in the A-League with Wellington Phoenix, Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar over 16 years. He also played for clubs in Europe and South America.
In 45 appearances for the All Whites he scoredfive goals. He last played for the national side in 2023.
A return to the Phoenix last season was marred by injuries, he appeared in just seven matches before his contract was ended three months early by mutual agreement.
Marco Rojas in action for the All Whites in 2023. Photo / Photosport
In a statement on social media, he said: “Having arrived in Melbourne from Chile, I decided that there was a scratch I needed to itch.
“[I] decided that I needed to go and train like a pro just one more time and put the curiosity and the question to bed, can I/do I want to do it again?
“Now I can put the curiosity to bed, and acknowledge that it’s time for me to move on. I am ready. I will not be playing anymore week in and week out like the professionals do.
Marco Rojas: 'Now I can put the curiosity to bed, and acknowledge that it’s time for me to move on.' Photo / Photosport
“I’m yet to know what type of football I might play down the line, although I really love the idea of keeping fit for the odd charity or community game.
“My hope with everything I do is to help ease the space for others when they retire,” Rojas’ statement continued.
“It’s a long time we don’t play after our 30s and there’s so much we can do. We must try.
“We will see how it goes. And shout out to Melbourne Victory. Thank you for letting me train [and] scratch that last itch.”
