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Vincenzo Montella Confirms Retirement

Striker Vincenzo Montella has announced he is quitting football and will start coaching Roma's youth teams soon.

Jul 2, 2009 3:31:43 PM

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Former Roma star Vincenzo Montella has decided to hang up his boots. One of Serie A's most prolific strikers will quit football after almost 20 years in the game.

It was not an easy choice for the 35-year-old, as he revealed to Roma Channel.

"It will take a while to get used to this idea, but there are moments in life when you have to make choices and have the strength to quit when someone might still care," he said.

"I thank Roma for the chance they have given me to work with youngsters, it's an adventure I am facing with enthusiasm.

"The club were very clear with me on that, I have a very good relationship with the club, which has matured with time. The role of preparing and educating the youth team isn't marginal, it gives me great pride."

Montella played for Roma between 1999 and 2009, winning the Scudetto in 2001, and making brief stops at Fulham and Sampdoria in loan stints.

He was a part of the Italian national team between 1999 and 2005.

Danilo Pochini, Goal.com

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