Madrid, February 20 (HS): Athletic Club Bilbao veteran defender Oscar de Marcos announced on Wednesday that he will retire from football at the end of the current season. De Marcos, who turns 36 in April, is currently in his 16th season with the club.

Last Sunday against Espanyol, he made his 560th appearance for the club, making himself the second most capped player in Athletic's history. He is joint second with Iker Muniain on this list, while Jose Angel Iribar (614 matches) tops the list.

De Marcos told a press conference at the club's Lezama training ground that he informed coach Ernesto Valverde of his decision to retire in early January.

He said, This decision was first in my mind, but in between I thought about continuing. However, this time I was sure that this was the right time.

In this season, De Marcos has played 19 matches in La Liga and six matches in Europa League. His team, Athletic Bilbao, is currently fourth in La Liga and has also missed out on a place in the last-16 of the Europa League.

De Marcos said, I think it's the right time for me. I waited to see what my body was saying, and it gave me a signal that it was time. I wanted to be useful as long as I played, and I'm glad I was able to do that.

Oscar de Marcos started his career as a forward. During his 16-year career, he also played as a winger and attacking midfielder, but in the last few years he played as a right-back. During this time he also scored 39 goals for the club.

De Marcos is known not only for his sports but also for his humanitarian work. He actively participated in activities such as visiting children in local hospitals, and charity trips to Africa and Latin America.

Now, as he prepares to say goodbye to his illustrious career, his place in the football world will always be remembered with respect.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar