Armando Sadiku has decided to put an end to his professional football career at the age of 35. The former Albania national team striker announced the decision through an emotional post on social media, thus closing a long journey in playing football.
“Thank you football! I will miss you!” Sadiku wrote in his farewell message, bringing to an end a career rich in experiences across several different leagues.
Following the end of his adventure on the green pitch, the former striker will begin a new chapter in his career, this time outside of it. Sadiku will take on the role of sporting director at Swiss club Bellinzona, continuing to be part of football in a leadership role.
During his career, Sadiku played for several Albanian and foreign teams. After his experiences with Gramozi and Elbasani, he played in leagues such as those of Switzerland, Poland, Turkey, Spain, Bolivia and India, building an international profile.
However, the most special moment of his career remains the goal he scored against Romania at Euro 2016. That achievement gave Albania their first victory in the history of a European Championship and scored the first goal by the Red and Blacks at a major tournament of this level.
With the national team shirt, Sadiku recorded 38 matches and 12 goals. He now begins a new challenge at Bellinzona, aiming to contribute to football from the position of sporting director.