Lahm declares 2018 retirement year
January 15, 2015
In an interview with French sports paper "L'Equipe" published on Thursday, Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm has reiterated that he plans to end his playing career in 2018.
"That is a possible date. I will be 34 then. It will be the right moment," the World Cup winning Germany captain said.
Back at the start of September 2014, Lahm had said to German sports publication "Sport Bild" that he was sure he could play four more years at the top level and "at Bayern Munich, because this is my club."
Despite there being a trend of older players moving to either Qatar or the United States, Lahm said he wanted to "quit at the top", much like he did in Germany colors. The 31-year old wants to "remember wonderful years with Bayern," not transfer to another club for one final financial windfall.
With another three years left on his contract though, Lahm still has big ambitions in Munich, none more so than adding another Champions League title after the one in 2013.
"The feeling of winning this competition is so exhilarating that I definitely want to win it again before I end my career," he said.
Although Lahm won't be playing after the age of 34, the defender said it was "obvious" that he would stay in the game because "football is my passion."
jh/ng (dpa)