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Lewis Holtby announces end of professional career at age 35

Lewis Holtby, 35-year-old German midfielder, announced the end of his career. The decision comes after NAC Breda left by mutual agreement. Over almost 20 years, he played for Schalke 04, Tottenham, Hamburger SV, Fulham, Blackburn Rovers, VfL Bochum and Holstein Kiel, also earning three caps for Germany.

5 August 2026
Lewis Holtby announces end of professional career at age 35

Lewis Holtby announces end of professional career at age 35

According to Vi.

Context

Lewis Holtby, a 35-year-old German midfielder, has had a remarkable career that has included spells at several top clubs such as Schalke 04 and Tottenham Hotspur. Capped three times by Germany, he has built a solid reputation in both the Bundesliga and Premier League. His recent departure from NAC Breda and subsequent retirement mark the end of a significant journey in professional football.

Why this matters

Lewis Holtby's retirement marks the end of an era in professional football, where he excelled in prestigious leagues such as the Bundesliga and Premier League. With an almost 20-year career, Holtby left his mark at several clubs, including Schalke 04 and Tottenham Hotspur, becoming a respected figure in the sport. His decision to retire may inspire other players to reflect on their own journey and the impact football has had on their lives.

Main conclusions

  • Lewis Holtby announces end of professional career at age 35.
  • Lewis Holtby, 35-year-old German midfielder, announced the end of his career.
  • Lewis Holtby kondigt einde van profcarrière aan.

Lewis Holtby has put an end to his professional football career. The 35-year-old German midfielder announced this Monday, via Instagram, that he has decided to retire, confirming the outcome expected later

"It's time to say goodbye. After almost 20 years as a professional football player, today my active career comes to an end," Holtby wrote in the farewell message. The former German international highlighted his gratitude for having lived his childhood dream for so long, highlighting that football gave him more than he had ever imagined: it helped him grow, took him to see new places and provided him with lifelong friendships.

Trained and established in Germany, Holtby built a CV with stints at several leading clubs. Throughout his career he represented Schalke 04, Tottenham Hotspur, Hamburger SV, Fulham, Blackburn Rovers, VfL Bochum and Holstein Kiel, before, last season, he wore the shirt of NAC Breda, from the Netherlands. At the same time, he won three caps for the main Germany team, a moment he described as one of the greatest honors of his career.

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In the note published on social media, the midfielder also left a special thank you to his family, for their support through the ups and downs of the profession, and highlighted the role of everyone who shared the dressing room with him: coaches, teammates and staff members. Holtby highlighted that he leaves the field with pride, humility and gratitude, and assured that he does not turn his back on football, leaving open a future connection with the sport.

Although he has not revealed what his next step will be, the German closes a relevant chapter in recent European football, marked by versatility and experience accumulated in the Bundesliga and English football. His goodbye comes at a natural moment, after the conclusion of his relationship with NAC Breda, and with the certainty, assured by himself, that he will continue, in some way, linked to the game that has accompanied him since childhood.

Holtby's farewell post echoes that of so many professionals who, after almost two decades of demanding at the highest level, say goodbye with the notion of a mission accomplished and the recognition of the fans who followed him at the various stops in his career. Memories of historic clubs and the pride of having worn the German national team shirt are left behind.

What happens next

Following the announcement of his retirement, Lewis Holtby is likely to explore new opportunities off the pitch, possibly in coaching or administrative roles within football. His vast experience at renowned clubs and his background in the Bundesliga could be valuable for future generations of players. Meanwhile, fans and former teammates will be able to remember the highlights of his career and the impact he had on European football.

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Lewis Holtby?

Lewis Holtby announced the end of his professional career at the age of 35.

Who confirmed Lewis Holtby's retirement?

Lewis Holtby confirmed his retirement via a message on Instagram.

Why has Lewis Holtby decided to retire now?

Lewis Holtby has decided to retire after almost 20 years as a professional football player, especially after his termination by mutual agreement with NAC Breda.

What changes occurred in Lewis Holtby's career?

Lewis Holtby played for several top teams, including Schalke 04, Tottenham Hotspur and NAC Breda, before announcing his retirement.

What did Lewis Holtby say about his career?

Lewis Holtby expressed gratitude for having lived a boy's dream and highlighted the friendships and experiences that football gave him.

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