Zola Calls Time on his Career

LaLaLaLa Zola
By BlueBlood
June 29 2005

Gianfranco Zola who mesmerised Premiership defences during his seven years at Chelsea has finally called time on his playing career.

At a press conference this afternoon, Franco announced his retirement at the age of 38.

Franco said "I think this is the right thing to do." He then went on to say "Some time has passed since the end of the season but I needed to reflect.

"It hasn't been an easy decision but I felt the need to dedicate myself to those things that I have neglected in all these years."

One of the first people to pay tribute to Franco was Ken Bates. On hearing the news that Franco had retired Batesy said "He's a fantastic example to all stars, particularly the young ones today," Batesy said.

Batesy continued, "He demonstrated if you're a genius you didn't also have to be a lout or a thug or a foul-mouthed idiot. I think that's a great example to all the players in the game, it's a pity more of them didn't learn to be honest with you. He was a credit to himself and his family, a lovely family man. He always behaved with dignity."

Below is a selection of stats that will prove that Gianfranco Zola was up their with the best and you can argue all day and all night that Gianfranco Zola WAS one of the best.

1996/1997 Chelsea 23 apps 8 goals

1997/1998 Chelsea 27 apps 8 goals

1998/1999 Chelsea 37 apps 13 goals

1999/2000 Chelsea 33 apps 4 goals

2000/2001 Chelsea 36 apps 9 goals

2001/2002 Chelsea 35 apps 3 goals

2002/2003 Chelsea 38 apps 14 goals

TOTAL 229 apps 59 goals Top Chelsea Premiership Goalscorers

1 Hasselbaink 69

2 Zola 59

3 Gudjohnsen 52

4 Spencer 34

5 Flo 32

5 Lampard 32

Serie A 2004/05

Gianfranco Zola Cagliari Appearances 31 Time Played 2,238 Goals 9 Shots 37 Goal Assists 7 Passes 997 Pass % 76% Crosses 205 Cross % 22% Dribbles & Runs 93 Dribble Completion % 52%

Franco you are undoubtedly a Chelsea LEGEND. Voted by Chelsea fans in 2003 as the best Chelsea player EVER, we wish you well in your retirement and thank you whole heartedly for your services to football in general.