Didier Drogba ready to retire in New Year

The former Marseille, Chelsea, Galatasaray and Ivory Coast striker will mark his second decade as a professional by retiring in 2018. He turns 40 in March.

The 39-year-old forward became the first player to own a club when he bought United Soccer League club Phoenix Rising FC earlier this year.

He will end his career having won the Champions League, four Premier Leagues, four FA Cups and three League Cups with Chelsea and the Turkish Super Lig with Galatasaray.

"I think next year will be my last season. There comes a time when you have to stop," said Drogba.

"I need time for my other projects. It's good to play, but at 39, it holds me back a bit."