Chelsea Legend Didier Drogba wants to hang boot at 40

Didier Drogba

Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has announced that he is to retire at the end of an upcoming campaign with Phoenix Rising.

The iconic Ivorian striker will take part in the 2018 USL season, but will then hang up his boots.

"It's really a pleasure for me to play. I started late at the top level. I really enjoy playing. I like my role of owner-player a lot. I'm surrounded by a lot of youngsters, and I like passing my know-how on to them. But this season is the last. I'm 40, it's time now, " said the Ivorian.

Drogba could return to France at some stage, with a non-playing position at Marseille appealing to a man who has achieved just about everything on the field.

He added: "We'll have to see what is offered. I'm always ready to help.

"In any case, Marseille are showing good things this year. Rudi Garcia's project is taking shape, they're building a team with young players. It's excellent to stay in the top three with a team like that. As a fan, I have a lot of faith in them.”