Melbourne Victory defender Matthew Spiranovic retires
One of Geelong’s greatest ever soccer exports has called an end to his glittering 17-year career.
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A foot injury has brought an end to Geelong-born soccer great Matthew Spiranovic’s 17-year professional career.
The former North Geelong Warrior announced on Thursday that his playing time was up, finishing his career where it began with Melbourne Victory.
The 34-year-old defender had a glittering run, including starting in all three of Australia’s matches at the 2014 World Cup.
His career appeared to have stalled in 2019 when a move overseas failed and he was left out of the game, before Victory coach Tony Popovic signed the experienced head in 2021.
But a foot injury picked up late last year forced Spiranovic into retirement midway through the current A-League male season.
“After suffering an ongoing foot injury for the last four months, the time has come for me to hang up the boots,” he said.
“It is with mixed emotions, as I would have loved nothing more than to finish the season and help get Melbourne Victory back to the top.”
After playing his first professional match in Victory colours in 2005, Spiranovic played around the globe, with FC Nurnberg (Germany), Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan), Al-Arabi (Qatar), Hangzhou Greentown (China) and locally with Western Sydney Wanderers and Perth Glory.
Spiranovic made 36 senior Socceroos appearances between 2008-19.
“I feel very blessed and proud of the career that I’ve been fortunate enough to have,” he said.
“To all my past clubs, teammates, coaches and fans, thank you for all the fond memories and special moments.”
Popovic, who coached Spiranovic with each of his three Australian clubs, said the defender was an “incredible servant to the game”.
“He is a player that has set an example and has led with his actions and I’ve been lucky enough to be part of his journey and have witnessed what he’s been able to contribute to football,” Popovic said.
Originally published as Melbourne Victory defender Matthew Spiranovic retires
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