[Official] Lucas Leiva Forced To Retire Due To His Health Issues

Former Lazio midfielder Lucas Leiva has had to retire. Heart problems are the cause.

Leiva, who last played for Gremio, announced that he was hanging up his boots on Friday (17/03/2023). He retired at the age of 36.

Leiva had to retire after being diagnosed with a heart condition. This was revealed last December when he was still wearing the Gremio jersey.

After taking time to undergo further testing, Lucas confirmed at a news conference on Friday that he had decided to call time on his playing days.

"I would like to thank Gremio for all the support they have given me during these three months."

"Today I'm announcing my retirement. It's been a tough time and I think this is the first time you've seen me cry."

"I ended up where I wanted to be, but not in the way I wanted."

"I think a new chapter is about to start. I was hoping things would improve, but that didn't happen. My health comes first," said Lucas Leiva.

From 2017 to 2022, the 36-year-old Brazilian played for Lazio in Serie A, making 198 appearances in all competitions and helping the Biancoceleste win two Coppa Italia titles and one Supercoppa Italiana.