Stockholm, Sweden – Former Sweden captain Freddie Ljungberg, a longtime player for Arsenal in the English Premier League, announced his retirement Friday.
Ljungberg, 35, played for Sweden from 1998-2008, making 75 appearances for his country. On the club level, his numerous stops were highlighted by his time at Arsenal from 1998-2007.
He scored 46 goals in 216 league games for Arsenal, and helped the club finish unbeaten in the 2003-04 season.
"It's still fun to play the big games, but when you no longer have the motivation for training then it's time to call it quits," Ljungberg told SVT. "This is a decision which has come about during a six-month absence.
"During my career I've had the possibility to play with some of the best players in the world, as well as some of the best teams. I'm grateful for everything football has given me and all of the fantastic people I've met during my career."
Ljungberg last played for Shimizu S-Pulse in Japan, but his contract was terminated by mutual consent in February. He also played in Sweden, the United States and Scotland during his club career.
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