EU-JINN TEH
Friday, 21 January 2005 5:37 AM
ARSENAL NEWS - Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has announced his retirement, ending a stunning career littered with trophies and medals.
Petit, known for his famous blonde pony-tail as much as his on-field exploits, made his announcement in an interview with French newspaper L'Equipe.
Petit joined Arsenal from Monaco in 1997 and formed a potent midfield partnership with Patrick Vieira, culminating in the double win of 1997/98. He then went on to win the 1998 World Cup, scoring the third goal for France in the 3-0 victory over Brazil.
After joining Barcelona in 2000, Petit had another stint in the English game, joining Chelsea in 2001, eventually being released at the end of last season when Roman Abramovich's money rolled in.
Petit made the decision to retire after he decided that he was no longer able to maintain the high level of physical form required to play at the professional level.
After an operation to his right knee, Petit had been training with Arsenal recently, and with the support of the medical staff he had hoped to regain his fitness. There had even been talk of his making a comeback to Arsène Wenger's side as injuries rocked their midfield options.
However, it wasn't to be and when it was obvious that he was unable to reach the required level, Petit decided to call it quits.
"Just before the Christmas, when it was clear that I would not be able to regain my physical form, I realised that it was the end for football," he explained.
After making his debut at 19, he retired from the international game in 2003 having won 63 caps.
Manu will be fondly remembered by the Arsenal faithful, as one half of the dream midfield partnership with Patrick Vieira and as one of the stars of the 1998 double winning season.
个人荣誉:
1989 French Cup Finals (Monaco)
1991 French Cup winner (Monaco)
1992 Finaliste of la Cup Winners Cup (Monaco)
1997 French 1st Division Champions (Monaco)
1998 Premiership Champions (Arsenal)
1998 FA Cup winner (Arsenal)
1998 World Cup winner (France)
2000 European Championship winner (France)
2000 UEFA Cup Finals (Arsenal)
2002 FA Cup Finals (Chelsea)
