New Delhi [India], Nov 22 (ANI): Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has confirmed his retirement from professional football.

Making the announcement on his official Twitter handle, the 40-year-old thanked all those who were with him during his journey as a football player.

"When I think of the last 20 years of my professional career, looking at this picture can't make me more proud of what I've achieved as a player but most importantly how this journey has shaped me as a man. If anyone tells you that your dreams are too big, just say thank you and work harder and smarter to turn them into reality. #alwaysbelieve," he wrote.

"I wanna thank all of the players, managers, teams and fans that I have met and made this journey one of a kind!!! Also a huuuuge thank you and live to my family, my Personal Team for supporting me all my career during all the ups and downs no matter what," read another tweet.

Drogba, who made his professional debut at the age of 18 for Ligue 2 club Le Mans, won three Premier League titles in his first eight years at Chelsea. In the seasons of 2006-07 and 2009-10, he had also won the Premier League Golden Boot. (ANI)

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