Former Juventus player and Chilean international Isla announced his retirement, and he also posted a long article on social media to recall the highlights of his career.
Isla's retirement farewell letter
I know it wasn't easy to write this down. Many memories flooded back, starting from when I was a child who had to take a minibus to chase my football dream. My start wasn't easy, but I understand that if I want to go further, I have to give it my all.
I thank Mr. Alfonso for recognizing my talent when I was 10; and I thank the Catholic University for giving me my initial foundation. Football gave me friends, education, habits, and a stable life for my family. It also taught me that people from slums can dream and make their dreams a reality.
I will always remember Professor José Solánte, who brought me into the youth national team, where we won third place at the 2007 Canada U20 World Cup. That performance got me into Marcelo Bielsa's plans; he chose to trust me when I was young. Thanks to this "lovable madman," he brought hope back to us and helped us reach our full potential.
On September 7, 2007, 19-year-old Bielsa entrusted me with the opportunity to make my debut for the Chilean national team. It was a wonderful story: I played 144 matches for the "Red Team," participated in six Copa Americas, two World Cups, and one Confederations Cup, and won two continental championships with a generation of players who rewrote Chilean history. Thank God I experienced all of this.
I am grateful to every club that opened its doors to me: Udinese, Juventus, Queens Park Rangers, Marseille, Cagliari, Fenerbahce, and Flamengo. The Flamengo fans made me feel like a Brazilian again. Afterwards, I returned to Chile and wore the jerseys of Universidad Católica, Independiente Rivadavia, and Colo-Colo, which holds special significance in my family story.
Thank you to those who helped me grow, stood by me when I was far from Chile, lent me a helping hand in difficult times, and trusted me. Thank you also to all the Chileans who cheered for my joy, especially for that goal against Uruguay.
September 7th, it all started here. Today, also the 7th, I announce that it all will end today. Out of love and respect for my family, I announce my retirement, ending my professional football career.
I hope everyone will remember me, remember the kid who dared to dream and eventually became a professional player.
Love you all, Mauricio Isla
