Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina announced his retirement at the age of 38.

Colombian goalkeeper and Arsenal legend David Ospina officially announced his retirement on Wednesday, ending his 20-year professional career.

The 38-year-old Ospina came through the youth academy of Atlético Nacional in Medellín and made his professional debut for the first team in the Copa Libertadores on May 1, 2006. He then played for Nice, Arsenal, Napoli and Al-Nassr before returning to Atlético Nacional in 2024.

During this period, Ospina made 490 appearances in all competitions, keeping 178 clean sheets. He also won numerous honors with the team, including three Colombian First Division titles, two Colombian Cup titles, one Colombian Super Cup title, two FA Cup titles, one Community Shield title, and one Italian Cup title.

At the national team level, Ospina has also made significant contributions. He has made 131 appearances for Colombia to date and has participated in two World Cups (2014, 2018) and four Copa Americas (2015, 2016, 2019, 2021).

In July of this year, Ospina joined Mexican powerhouse Atalanta on a free transfer. However, due to his persistent elbow injury, Atalanta ultimately suspended their partnership in September.

At the beginning of his retirement statement, Ospina wrote: "These are a few words I dedicate to football after many days. These words are not casually written, but they are full of deep gratitude."

“In recent days, I have often thought back to my childhood self. When the coach asked who wanted to be the goalkeeper, I was the only one who raised my hand. That day, I decided my future on the neighborhood field—even though I knew nothing about it at the time. What I have achieved in the end is even greater than my initial dream.”

"Thank you to my initial supporters: my father Hernán, my mother Lucia, and my sister Daniela. Thank you Jesse, whose love sustained me through difficult times and shared every victory with me. Thank you to my children, they are the greatest achievement of my life."

"Thank you Nacional in Medellín, the beginning and end of my career. Thank you Nice, for teaching me the true meaning of hard work. Thank you Arsenal, a legendary place for me. Thank you Napoli, for a passion that cannot be described but can only be felt firsthand. Thank you Riyadh Victory, for welcoming me with such anticipation and joy. And thank you Atlas, for your unwavering trust in me."

"It is a great honor to be able to dedicate myself to the motherland and sing the national anthem with tens of thousands of people."

"I left not by choice, but because I listened to my body. These words are my farewell letter as a professional footballer. I haven't given up; I'm filled with gratitude. It's been a wonderful journey. To my younger self: You know how to guide me. Rest assured, I will follow the guidance of my smile."

Image source: Internet