As one of the most naturally gifted strikers of his era, Sergio Aguero is a striker who really does strike fear into his opponents. Gifted with natural pace and deadly acceleration to match, Aguero is a technically gifted genius who can score with aplomb using both feet. His arrival at Barcelona as a 32-year-old was seen as the ideal addition; a high-class striker to take the weight off the gaping, Luis Suarez-shaped hole in the attack of the Blaugrana.

However, despite scoring a goal in the El Clasico fixture, Aguero has missed much of the season with a surprise heart condition.

Informed that it would take some time for a decision to be made on whether or not he could resume playing, a decision arrived this week. As reports suggested, Aguero has bene forced to retire due to the severity of his heart condition. At the age of 33, the former Atletico Madrid and Manchester City striker must bid farewell to his professional career.

Chest pains around six weeks ago had left both club and player concerned about the severity of the issue. Tests have been carried out, and it has been made clear that the veteran Argentine must put his health ahead of his career.

In a tearful press conference, Aguero admitted that he did not want to call it a day but feels compelled to follow the medical advice.

What did Sergio Aguero say about his retirement?

As the striker took to the stage, it was clear that the reports of retirement were true. In a statement broadcast on Barca TV, the Copa America winning striker said: “This conference is to communicate that I have decided to stop playing football. It’s a very difficult moment, but the decision that I have made is for my health, that’s the main reason.

“It’s because of the problem that I had a month and a half ago. I was in the good hands of the medical staff, who have done their best, and they have told me that the best thing is to stop playing.

“Around 10 days ago I made that decision. I want to tell everyone that I did everything possible to have hope, but there wasn’t much hope. I am very happy with the career I’ve had. I always dreamt about playing football.”

Speaking on what he had achieved in his career, Aguero added: “My dream was to play in the Primera division, I never thought I would get to Europe. I want to thank everyone, to Atletico Madrid, who took a bet on me when I was 18 that I could do well in Europe.

“To those at Manchester City. You know how I feel about Manchester City – they looked after me very well, and to Barca – the team has been great to me, and without doubt, it’s one of the best teams int the world.”

Whatever comes next – coaching, punditry, business, or simply relaxing – it is clear that Aguero made the most of the talent he had. It is simply a shame that fans will not get to see him use that incredible ability for longer.