Leverkusen´s Barbarez announces retirement

Bosnian international striker Sergej Barbarez, who played for German sides Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg and Borussia Dortmund, has announced his retirement, according to media reports here on Monday.

“It's finished for me,” the 36-year-old told daily newspaper Hamburger Morgenpost, adding that he wanted to pursue activities outside football.

Barbarez spent his entire senior career in Germany, starting at second division side Hannover 96, then moving to Hansa Rostock, Dortmund, Hamburg and finishing at Leverkusen.

With 330 appearances, Barbarez – who captained his country – has played more games in the German first division than any other foreigner.

He scored a career total of 95 goals, 22 of those helping him to the top Bundesliga goalscorer title in 2000-2001 season.