Agencies MALAPPURAM (KERALA), Nov 2: Former Indian defender Anas Edathodika has announced his retirement from professional football, drawing curtains on his 17-year senior professional career. The 37-year-old has represented India on 21 occasions, besides featuring in 172 competitive club encounters. Taking to his social media handles on Saturday, Edathodika shared an emotional video of his accolades, besides penning a passionate note. "It's time to hang up my boots and say farewell to professional football. From the fields of Malappuram to stadiums across India, this journey has been a dream come true," he noted. "I started out with nothing but a love for the game and a heart full of hope, and today, I'm blessed to close this chapter right here in my hometown of Malappuram. It's been a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons that have shaped who I am. "To everyone who stood by me through the highs and lows - my family, coaches, teammates, and the fans who lifted me up when I needed it most - thank you. Football has given me more than I could ever give back, and I'm forever grateful for every moment."
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