Jan Vertonghen has now bid an emotional farewell to football, with the legendary Tottenham Hotspur defender hanging up his boots. Spurs fans may recognise a few familiar faces at the ceremony too.
Since Jan Vertonghen announced his decision to retire from professional football back in March, the countdown had well and truly begun.
Now, the moment has arrived, and for the final time in what has been a long, decorated, and industrious career, the Belgian has kicked a football for the very last time.
Vertonghen was a stalwart for Tottenham Hotspur, spending eight seasons in north London between 2012 and 2020. He made 315 appearances for the club and earned a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year on two occasions.
His performances at the back were integral during Tottenham’s journey to the UEFA Champions League final in 2019, cementing his legacy as one of the most dependable centre-backs of the modern era.
Jan Vertonghen retires after final match for Anderlecht
The centre-back, who had been plying his trade at Anderlecht in Belgium, has now officially hung up his boots after playing 70 minutes in Anderlecht’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge.
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Following the match, the Belgian side ensured the former Tottenham man received a proper send-off, with tributes paid on the pitch to honour his remarkable career.
Vertonghen was joined on the pitch by former Spurs teammates Mousa Dembele and Michel Vorm, as they posed for photos with commemorative shirts inscribed with the number of appearances he made for each club during his career.
There were also messages played out on the big screen from Heung-min Son and Ben Davies, as well as former Tottenham Hotspur manager, Jose Mourinho.
Spurs legacy and Jan Vertonghen’s impact
Jan Vertonghen is undoubtedly one of the great centre-backs to represent Tottenham in the Premier League era. His consistency, calmness on the ball, and defensive intelligence made him a fan favourite.
Tottenham supporters were quick to pay tribute to the Belgian after he confirmed his retirement, with many fondly recalling his solid partnership with compatriot Toby Alderweireld.
Speaking after his announcement, Vertonghen explained: “I have noticed that it is becoming more and more difficult to prepare myself physically for training sessions and matches and to show myself as the player I want to be. Not only towards the fans and my fellow players but also towards myself. That is why I will be stopping after this season.”