For those who love the beautiful game, it was hard not to love Juan Roman Riquelme during his stellar career.
The 36-year-old Argentine playmaker has called time on his playing days, as the former Boca Juniors, Villarreal, Barcelona and Argentinos Juniors was a maverick playmaker during a storied career.
[ RELATED: Riquelme scores on Argentinos debut ]
A maverick who preferred caressing a ball with aplomb, plus scoring and setting up beautiful goals, over running around aimlessly, Riquelme was adored by soccer fans across the globe and was worth the entrance fee alone.
He played at the 2006 World Cup for Argentina and at two Copa America’s for La Albiceleste, while also starring as Argentina won the Gold medal at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. During his time in Spain, Riquelme struggled at Barcelona but flourished with tiny Villarreal as they competed with the big boys of Spanish soccer and reached the last four of the UEFA Champions League.
One of the most entertaining players to watch throughout his career, above is a video of Riquelme which showcases a few of his supreme moments of talent on a soccer pitch. Thanks for everything, Juan Roman.