Skip to main content

Riquelme bows out after Libertadores defeat

Corinthians won South America's elite club trophy for the first time by beating Riquelme's side 2-0 in the second leg of the final in Sao Paulo on Wednesday night, recording a 3-1 aggregate victory.

"I've told the [club] president I'm not going to carry on," former Barcelona and Villarreal playmaker Riquelme told reporters at the Pacaembu.

"I feel empty. I haven't got anything else to give to the club," said the 34-year-old who helped Boca to their 10th final in search of a record-equalling seventh crown.

"I can't play at half [steam]," Riquelme added before saying he would decide soon if he would continue his career at another club.

"I've lived through a lot these past six months. I didn't expect to play in another Libertadores Cup final," said an emotional Riquelme.