Alessandro Del Piero has played his last game for Sydney FC after the A-League club announced they couldn't agree to a new contract with the Italian striker.
The two parties had been in discussions for months about extending Del Piero's two-season stay in the competition, but on Monday, Sydney FC chairman Scott Barlow issued a statement paying tribute to the 39-year-old.
"While it would have been fantastic to see Alessandro remain in Sky Blue, ultimately this has been his decision," said Barlow.
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"Two years ago Sydney FC signed one of the greatest players to have ever worn a football shirt"
"His signing was the biggest in Australian football history and it lifted Sydney FC and the A-League onto the world stage."
In a statement on his website, Del Piero said his adventure with Sydney FC had come to a close.
"I'm really grateful for the last two years and for the club’s request for me to remain and with whom, I am happy to explore new opportunities to continue our relationship," he said in a statement on his website.
"It hasn't been an easy choice," he said. "My life on and off the pitch has been fantastic, my family and I have really enjoyed these two wonderful years: Australia will remain in our hearts forever."
Del Piero said he will continue to work the Australian Football Federation including in his role as ambassador of the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.
Sydney FC also left room for a reunion with the club.
“Today is bitter-sweet. While we would have liked to see Alessandro remain at Sydney, his decision now allows us to further our discussions about some exciting new opportunities for our ongoing relationship and to build on the legacy that has been started," Barlow said.
Barlow paid tribute to the star skipper, praising the contribution del Piero made to A-League.
"There is no doubt that Alessandro’s contribution has laid the foundations for a lasting legacy and he has inspired a whole new generation of Sydney FC football fans and future players,” Barlow said.
"The next generation of Sydney FC stars will be the kids who came along with their parents to watch Del Piero on the pitch in Sydney."
