Crespo makes Parma exit

Hernan Crespo has left Parma by mutual consent and called time in his glittering 16-year career in European football.

Argentinian striker calls time on European adventure

Hernan Crespo has left Parma by mutual consent and called time in his glittering 16-year career in European football. The 36-year-old Argentinian striker moved from River Plate to Parma in 1996 before playing for the likes of Lazio, Inter Milan, Chelsea and AC Milan. Crespo made one Serie A start this season and has decided to call it quits in Italy once and for all as he was surplus to requirements. The former Argentina international has offers on the table from numerous countries and he has no plans to call time on his career just yet.

Decision

"It's not easy explaining the reasons why I'm not only ending my relationship with Parma, but also football at this level," said Crespo. "I'd have preferred not to do it, but I'm positive and I want to explain to Parma supporters why. "I've made this decision because I'm not part of the club's sporting plan. For the moment I don't have a job. "I'll consider offers from India, China, Qatar and America. I want to continue because I still consider myself a player. "I've made this decision because I know Parma can do good things also without me. Had they been in difficulty I wouldn't have done this. "As for my professional future? I'd love to come back to Parma. As a manager or coach, I don't know."