Top > Sport > 2006 > May > 2006-05-01

Kahn Speaks of Retirement Plans

Oliver Kahn, captain for FC Bayern Munchen, announced that he would quit professional football in 2008. Kahn revealed his plans during an interview for a newspaper on Saturday. "After the World Cup I will play for two more years at Bayern Munich, and then this phase of life is over for me," Kahn told the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, adding: "I will not end this phase of life with a retirement but with my head held high, accepting the situation as it is."

Kahn announcement follows the one made by Zinadean Zidane, the Frence star, who also said he would retire after the coming world cup.
Kahn, 36, was stunned earlier this month when Arsenal FC`s Jens Lehmann was named as Germany`s first choice goalkeeper for this summer`s FIFA World Cup. He has accepted the role of understudy to Lehmann for the tournament, which Germany is hosting.

"If I am needed at the World Cup, I am there," Kahn told the FAZ. His contract with Bayern runs until June 30, 2008, and he will probably not renew his contract.