The West Ham United defender has kept himself in great shape physically.
West Ham ace Pablo Zabaleta spoke exclusively to Sky Sports, and insisted that retirement is currently not an option for him, citing how much he loves playing football as a major reason why he will continue for the foreseeable future.
The 33-year-old joined the Hammers on a free transfer in the summer of 2017, and he has gone on to be a real hit at the London Stadium, making 52 appearances for the east London outfit.
Zabaleta has played a key role for Manuel Pellegrini’s side this season, especially during their fine recent run of form in the Premier League.
The Argentine spoke exclusively to Sky Sports, and responded when asked by a reporters if retirement at the end of the season will be an option for him:
“No, no, I will be 34 in January, and I love football so much. If i continue to play in every game, it means that I can go on for a few more years. When you are in your thirties, you cannot think about long-term, but I’m not thinking about retirement. If can can go on for another few years I will, because I have so much love for football.”
Pellegrini has already said that Zabaleta will not be able to play every game in December, and as long as he is given ample rest time, he will surely be able to go on and play for at least another two years.
He is still a top class defender, and has plenty of energy considering his age.
West Ham will certainly miss the right-back when he does eventually hang up his boots, but it doesn’t seem like that will be happening anytime soon.
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