12 Apr Melbourne Victory skipper Carl Valeri to retire at season’s end

Melbourne Victory captain Carl Valeri has announced he will retire at the end of the A-League season.

Valeri, 34, joined the Victory in 2014 and went on to win two A-League championships in 2014/15 and 2017/18 as well as an FFA Cup in 2015.

Prior to returning to Australia, the defensive midfielder spent over 10 years playing in Italy, starting his career with Serie A giants Inter Milan, before enjoying stints at Grosetto, Sassuolo and Ternana.

He also won 52 caps for Australia between 2007-2014, competing at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

“After much consideration, the choice for me is a happy one and something I am at peace with,” Valeri told melbournevictory.com.au.

“I am excited and committed to play out the rest of the current season, and hopefully achieve success with the group, knowing this will be my last with the football club.

“It has been an incredible journey for myself and my family, spanning my time at Victory and previously to that with the Socceroos and abroad.

“When I do play my last game, it will be a time of celebration and reflection on a special career and five wonderful seasons with Melbourne Victory.”