Pedro Rodriguez, the former winger for Barcelona and Chelsea, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39. The announcement was made on October 7, 2026, as he looks to embark on a new chapter in his life.
After leaving Italian club Lazio at the end of last season, Pedro had not signed with any new team. The former international player from Spain confirmed his decision on , expressing that it was the right time to move forward. He shared a video highlighting some of the best moments of his career, stating, “I feel that now is the right time. It’s time to move on and start a new chapter in my life. I am proud to say goodbye to football, fulfilling my dreams with all those who helped make them come true. Thank you, football, for all the happiness.”
Pedro joined Barcelona’s youth system from Tenerife at the age of 17. He progressed through the club’s academy, eventually representing ‘Barça B’. He made his first-team debut during the 2007/08 season and signed his first senior contract in 2009.
He quickly established himself as a key player in Barcelona’s star-studded lineup. Notably, during the 2009/10 season, Pedro became the first player to score in all six official competitions the club participated in that year. His goals spanned La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, Spanish Super Cup, European Super Cup, and the Club World Cup.
One of Pedro’s most memorable moments came in 2011 during the Champions League final against Manchester United at Wembley, where he scored the opening goal. Barcelona won the match 3-1, securing their fourth European title.
In 2015, Pedro transferred to Chelsea, continuing his successful career before later playing for Italian clubs Roma and Lazio. On the international stage, he was part of the Spanish team that won the FIFA World Cup in South Africa in 2010 and the European Championship in 2012.