Yassine Meriah retires from football after two years of knee pain

Yassine Meriah has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32, citing persistent knee problems that have prevented him from continuing his career.

The Tunisia international made the announcement after joining Club Africain from city rivals Esperance de Tunis this season in a move that attracted considerable attention.

Meriah said he had reached his decision after a lengthy period of personal reflection. In a message posted on Instagram, he wrote: “After a long period of thinking, I have decided today to stop playing football for one reason, and that reason is health-related.

“I have been suffering from severe pain in my knee for two years. I tried as much as I could to continue playing despite it, but the time has come when painkillers are no longer effective.”

Meriah added: “God willing, I have had a respectable career, and God willing, I never held back for any club I played for. Thank you to everyone who helped me, even if it was only with a kind word. Goodbye, football.”

The defender began his career in Tunisia with Etoile Sportive du Metlaoui before also playing for CS Sfaxien. He subsequently moved abroad, representing Kasimpasa, Olympiacos and Caykur Rizespor during three European spells.

He made 25 appearances for Esperance de Tunis last season and scored two goals before switching to Club Africain.

Meriah also won 95 caps for Tunisia. His final appearance for the national team came at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Club Africain won the Tunisian league last year, with Esperance de Tunis, Meriah’s former club, finishing runners-up. Meriah helped Esperance win the Tunisian league, the Tunisian Cup twice and the Tunisian Super Cup once during his time with the club.

Club Africain will compete in the CAF Champions League next season.