World Cup winner Schweinsteiger announces retirement

BERLIN - Germany's World Cup-winning midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has announced his retirement from playing football.

"Saying goodbye as an active player makes me feel a little nostalgic, but I am also looking forward to the exciting challenges that await me," the 35-year-old wrote on Twitter.

Germany head coach Joachim Low indicated that Schweinsteiger's next challenge may involve joining the coaching staff of the national team.

"Any player who has ever played in the national team, and has the goal of being a coach, is always welcome here to get a taste of what it's like," said Low.

Schweinsteiger's final appearance was for Chicago Fire in the MLS on Sunday, where he helped his team seal a 5-2 victory against Orlando City, though his side failed to make the MLS play-offs.

Schweinsteiger's professional career began in 2002 when he made his debut for Bayern Munich after coming through the club's youth system.

During his time at Bayern he played 345 Bundesliga games, scored 45 goals and made 70 assists, winning the German league and cup on multiple occasions, and also lifting the UEFA Champions League in 2013.

After 17 years at Bayern, Schweinsteiger moved to Manchester United in 2015, but made just 35 appearances in two years after struggling with fitness and form.

In March 2017, the German transferred to Chicago Fire in the MLS, where he played three seasons before ending his playing career.

In addition to his club career, Schweinsteiger also played 121 times for the German national team, with whom he notably lifted the 2014 FIFA World Cup.