Retiring Milito earns Aguero praise

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero has shown his affection for Gabriel Milito in a glowing public tribute for his retiring countryman.

Former Barcelona and Real Zaragoza man Milito, who was a team-mate of Aguero at Independiente and also with the Argentina national team, announced on Tuesday that he was retiring due to physical and mental exhaustion.

His last game in front of the Independiente faithful will take place this weekend against San Lorenzo, in the Libertadores de America stadium where he began his career before moving to Spain.

Aguero was one of the first to react to the news as he spends the post-season break in his native Argentina.

“Gabi Milito announced he is leaving football. I just want to say that the greats will never retire. His commitment and passion are a shining example,” Aguero posted on Twitter.

“I remember as well that my first match in Independiente was his last before going to Spain. It was an honour, Gabi!”

Aguero’s words were echoed by Milito’s former Barca team-mates Victor Valdes and Gerard Pique, who also paid tribute via the social networking site.

“Gabi Milito, one of the best centre-backs that I had the pleasure to see play in front of me,” Valdes said.

“Gabi Milito is retiring, one of the greats! A pleasure to share a dressing room in Zaragoza and Barcelona and learn so much from him!” Pique said.