Juliano Belletti: A fond farewell

By: Jack | June 27th, 2011

Juliano Belletti spent just under three years at Chelsea. Today he announced his retirement from the game. It’s safe to say he will be greatly missed.

juliano

Persistent injuries ravaged Belletti late in his career, particularly during his return to Brazil after his contract wasn’t renewed by us in June 2010. The 35-year-old signed a one-year contract with Ceará on 15 June, but I’m sure it was clear to him that his time as a footballer was up.

Belletti took to Twitter on Monday to announce his decision to leave the game, citing recurring Achilles problems as his reason for retiring.

“I want to continue, but my body won’t let me,” Belletti Tweeted. “Today I close my career as a professional football player due to physical problems.”

Tough. Belletti was not exactly a popular signing when he joined Chelsea in August 2007. I remember it being more of an “eh” move for most of us. But, you know, the guy won most of us over I think. He put in a solid shift, tireless in his work ethic. He didn’t complain about playing time. And, yeah, he scored some fantastic goals for the club. He may well be the definition of underrated to be honest with you.

We at The CO would like to take this time to thank Juliano for his wonderful contribution not just to the evolution of Chelsea Football Club, but also to the game in general. We wish you the best in whatever awaits you in the future.

Juliano Belletti,
Juliano Belletti,
Juliano Belletti,
Juliano Belletti.

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Category: Chelsea Team News, Former Players, Video

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Desailly

While watching a Chelsea game, my girlfriend asked me why Chelsea fans always booo him when he gets the ball haha.
I explained to her it wasnt boos, they were all shouting SHOOOOOOOOOOOT!
Denny

Belletti for me was weird, because he was played everywhere and showed that he could be whatever Chelsea wanted him to be. Winger, defender, central midfielder, benchwarmer, starter, but always a true professional. Hands down the most versatile player, and that's made him so special for the team.

I think he's rightfully one of Chelsea's own. Fantastic career Juliano!
Kenny Shackelford

Always a class professional and seemingly underrated. Great video as well.
Jack

Yeah, that video is pretty epic.
Diego

One of the most underrated players i have ever known. No one would have guessed that he scored the winner in the champions league final against arsenal in 2006. Thank you Belletti for scoring against our rivals and preventing them from having any chance to win. If there was a London club to win the Champions League i think we deserve to be the first. We are always unlucky year after year. So come on Chelsea lets make it to Munich. Thumbs UP if agree and Reply if you hate.KTBFFH
Armando

Superb.
ph0bolus

SHOOT! SHOOT! SHOOT! Got pretty slow and clumsy near the end of his Chelsea career, but damn his goals were beautiful.

Video gave me goosebumps..
Vipul Dhengle

Feels bad as he retires but still Juliano Belletti is 1 of the best right back of his time...........
wisesageknowledge

SHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
orthodoxyordeath

Thanks for posting this. After he left Chelsea, he fell off my radar, so it's nice to know he's gone peacefully. Thanks again.

KTBFFH.
rhs

i really really respect belliti !!! great team player