Germany defender, Marcell Jansen has quit professional football at the age of just 29 following his release by Hamburg. In 2007, Jansen had the world at his feet when he joined Bundesliga giants. But having failed to break into Bayern’s first-team, Jansen was sold to Hamburg in 2008 where he has spent recent seasons battling relegation. His decision to quit came despite offers from England’s Everton and Benfica Lisbon.

“Recently, football has been my job, but I’m looking forward to getting it back again as a hobby,” he added.

About Marcell Jansen:

• Jansen is a former German footballer.
• Jansen won the last of his 45 caps for Germany in March 2014, when he started in a 1-0 friendly win over Chile.
• Though he was included in Joachim Low’s provisional World Cup squad, he was cut from the final group which went on to win Brazil 2014.
• He is well known for his accurate crossing and pace, despite his tall stature.
• Jansen previously played for Germany at under-21 level