Higuain retired in tears after last outing in MLS Playoffs loss to Inter Miami

An emotional Gonzalo Higuain ended a stellar playing career after Inter Miami exited the MLS Playoffs on Monday.

The former Argentina international, who won 75 caps for his country, was on the losing side as Miami were beaten 3-0 by defending champions New York City FC.

Higuain had confirmed his intention to retire earlier this month and was in tears as he left the pitch, with a career that included spells with Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus now over.

"I felt like I loved what I loved the most when I ended a job. That was half my life, my career, 17 and a half years," said Higuain, who previously spoke about his plans to become a mental health coach, explaining why he was moved to tears.

"Images of my entire career came to mind - what I've been through, what I've worked for, what I've been through - and I leave very happy because I gave it my all until today. This is the most important thing.

"The dream is over and another life begins."

Six-time domestic league champion – with three La Liga crowns and three Serie A triumphs – the 34-year-old signed for the MLS club in September 2020.

He left a lasting impression on the club and manager Phil Neville, having scored 29 goals in 67 MLS appearances.

"He starts the way he should start, with the goals he has scored, the happiness he has played with," said former Manchester United full-back Neville.

"The way he hugged his teammates and carried his teammates is exactly what we expected. I think he can be extremely proud.

"It's a huge adjustment period for any player to come to MLS, especially when you've played in Europe, in the Champions League, to come here. I think it's a big learning curve if people come here and think it's going to be easy and it's not.

"I'm proud to have coached him. I think as a club we're proud to have had him. He leaves in a good time, he got us into the Playoffs, and he can now enjoy his retirement. We wish him all the best and he will always be welcome.”