Former France and West Ham midfielder Payet retires from football

The 38 year old has remained without a team for nine months after his period with Brazilian outfit Vasco da Gama. He shared the news in a moving live discussion at the interval of the Ligue 1 fixture pitting home team Marseille against Lille at the Stade Velodrome.

Payet could barely hold back his emotions while announcing his retirement at the venue linked to the side where he experienced his finest achievements over two distinct periods.

Born in Reunion, the midfielder launched his pro journey with FC Nantes in 2005. He secured 38 appearances for France, netting eight times, and played a key role in the group that advanced to the 2016 European Championship final, ultimately losing 1-0 to Portugal following additional play.

"Let me use two minutes to express thanks to all, to everyone who joined me in these 20 years. It has been utterly remarkable," he remarked.

"From an island background, my ambition was to turn pro. I achieved that and sustained it for 20 years at the elite standard. I represented the national team, and this marks the close of an inspiring path."

Though his career lacked a significant honour, Payet carved out a reputation as a leading expert in dead ball situations for Marseille and Premier League club West Ham United.