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Philadelphia Union forward Veljko Paunovic retires
The former Atletico Madrid forward retired at 34 following a season in MLS with Philadelphia.
Jan 18, 2012 10:37:00 PM
By Zac Lee Rigg
Getty Images
Veljko Paunovic announced his retirement Wednesday at age 34. The Philadelphia Union forward enjoyed an 18-year career, much of which he spent in Spain with seven different clubs.
"It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from soccer due to family reasons but I will never forget the Union fans and the atmosphere at PPL Park every game," Paunovic said. "I have proudly worn the Union Jersey wherever we have played throughout the country and I will always feel like a Union "soldier" wherever I am in the world."
The Serbian international scored three goals and notched three assists in his season in Philadelphia.
"He's been a top professional both on and off the field since he arrived and throughout his stay he has made the Union a better club," Union manager Peter Nowak said. "We understand that family is more important than anything and, as much we are all sad to see him go and that we are losing such a great guy, we will always cherish his time with us. We wish Veljko and his family the very best."
"It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from soccer due to family reasons but I will never forget the Union fans and the atmosphere at PPL Park every game," Paunovic said. "I have proudly worn the Union Jersey wherever we have played throughout the country and I will always feel like a Union "soldier" wherever I am in the world."
The Serbian international scored three goals and notched three assists in his season in Philadelphia.
"He's been a top professional both on and off the field since he arrived and throughout his stay he has made the Union a better club," Union manager Peter Nowak said. "We understand that family is more important than anything and, as much we are all sad to see him go and that we are losing such a great guy, we will always cherish his time with us. We wish Veljko and his family the very best."
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