Fernando Torres said goodbye to football after playing the final match of a glittering career. Ahead of his last match, the striker dedicated this farewell letter to the football fans that was printed and placed on every seat at the Best Amenity Stadium.

To all the fans of the world:

When I was five years old, I started playing football with my brother. Thirty years later I will play my final match as a professional. Today I look back and can hardly believe everything I have lived through. I feel very fortunate to have been able to win the most important trophies in the world and play for some of the most prestigious clubs.

There are also the successes with the Spanish national team; I have experienced feelings of great emotion and happiness. I wanted to thank football for making me so happy. But I don't want to forget the most authentic part of the sport, the part which makes it so wonderful: the fans.

Thanks to each and every one of the fans of the teams I played for, loving, cheering and respecting me. Also, to rival fans because you made me a better player.

I hope it made you enjoy my football and inspired you in some way. Never stop chasing your dreams, it has been a real pleasure.

Thank you, football. Thank you fans.

Fernando Torres