Abou Diaby retires at the age of 32

Abou Diaby has decided to retire from professional football at the age of 32 [Courtesy]

Former France international and ex-Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32.

According to several European sports news outlets seen by Game Yetu, Diaby decided to put an end to his football career following developing physical problems which hindered his performances at the highest level.

"I put an end to my professional career. It was time. For a number of years it has been difficult for me to come back. I had a lot of physical problems. At one point, you have to ask the right questions,” said Diaby.

Diaby decided to put an end to his football career following developing physical problems which hindered his performances at the highest level [Courtesy]

Diaby added that his body was not responding to his needs when he moved to Marseille.

"I decided to stop simply because the body was not following me. It's difficult because I have spent most of my life in football,” Diaby explained.

Perhaps the highlight of Diaby’s career was making 180 appearances for Arsenal under Arsene Wenger, scoring nine goals.

Diaby playing for Marseille [Courtesy]

He later signed for French club Marseille but only managed to play six times in two seasons.