Ivory Coast’s Nations Cup winning goalkeeper Boubacar Barry has announced his retirement from football with immediate effect.
It comes exactly four years after the 39-year old retired from international matches after helping the Elephants win the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
Barry, whose career lasted for more than two decades, was part of Ivory Coast’s ‘golden’ generation which included the legendary Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, Kolo Touré and Gervinho amongst others.
“On 2 March I announced the end of my career as a goalkeeper which has lasted for 22 years,” Barry said in a statement on the website of Belgian
“Boubacar ‘Copa’ Barry became what he is today thanks to the support from people who trusted him and gave him a chance,” Barry added, as he thanked those who have supported him during his career.
Barry confirmed he is staying in Belgium to take up a coaching role.