TEHRANTIMES - Former Iran midfielder Ferydoon Zandi announced his retirement from football on Thursday.

The 36-year-old former Esteghlal Club player spent last season at the UAE’s Al Ahli.

Zandi, who was born in the city of Emden, in northern Germany, to an Iranian father and a German mother, started his career at SV Meppen.

He has also played in several German clubs including SC Freiburg, Kaiserslautern, VfB Lubeck and TuS Koblenz.

He played for Team Iran 29 matches and scored five goals. Zandi represented Iran in the 2006 World Cup against Mexico, Portugal and Angola.

Zandi was invited by Carlos Queiroz for a friendly in May 2012 against Albania but he announced his retirement from International football before the match.

“I think it’s the right time to hang up my boots. It's the hardest decision I've ever made. I decided to call time on my career after struggling with injuries. I want to thank my family and friends who have supported me over the years,” Zandi wrote on his page.

“I enjoyed playing football but I want to apologize to my fans who were waiting for my comeback. Saying goodbye is so hard but I will come back soon,” he added