Former Arsenal star who won two FA Cups retires aged 38 as he hangs up boots in emotional statement

ARSENAL hero David Ospina announced his retirement from football with an emotional message that led to some touching tributes from legendary team-mates.

Ospina, 38, was the Gunners’ No1 from 2014, when he moved to the Emirates from Nice after an impressive World Cup with Colombia, until 2019.

Arsenal goalkeeper celebrates during the FA Cup match against Burnley. — Arsenal hero David Ospina announced his retirement from football with an emotional message

David Ospina celebrated by his teammates on the field after a match. — Ospina received a number of touching messages from iconic Colombia team-mates

The famous goalkeeper helped the North Londoners win two FA Cup honours in 2015 and 2017 until his departure for Napoli, where he spent a year on loan before his permanent move to Italy.

After four years with the Serie A giants and another two with Al-Nassr, the Colombia legend returned to boyhood club Atletico Nacional where he decided to hang up his gloves.

Ospina posted the following message on Instagram along with a clip of his career’s greatest highlights: “To Football I say Thank You! Not giving up on me…… I will go where the smile takes me!”

A number of fellow legends took to the comments’ section to give him his flowers after an impressive 21-year career, such as superstar keeper Thibaut Courtois.

Courtois posted: “Congratulations on your career buddy! I wish you all the best in your new stage of life! A big hug.”

And many of Ospina’s iconic Colombia team-mates soon followed after the ex-Chelsea star.

James Rodriguez wrote: “You are a great No1! Thank you for the joys and for your exemplary career. Proud to know this great human being I feel privileged to be able to call you BROTHER.

“We have fought together, laughed together, cried together! Many battles, I wish you the best in this new stage of your life. I love you.”

Arsenal players celebrate winning the FA Cup in the stands. — Ospina won two FA Cup honours with Arsenal

Juan Cuadrado added: “Excellent, my boss and leader. An honour to have shared so many battles together. You made history. Blessings for what’s to come.”

Luis Diaz commented: “What an honour and privilege to have shared the dressing room with you, brother.

“Beyond a great goalkeeper you are an amazing human being. Thank you so much David. You will always be an example to everyone.”

And Radamel Falcao stated: “Dear friend, it has been an honour to share with you part of this journey.. I wish you the best in what is coming for your life. Big Hug!”

Ospina amassed a total of 70 appearances with Arsenal and 131 caps with Colombia.