CFC forward Schembri to retire after final

The former Malta international, who has 94 caps to his name, has decided to call it a day, announcing the same through his official social media pages. With his first and CFC’s third ISL title up for grabs, Schembri will aim to go out on a high. The overseas recruit has been an integral part of Chennaiyin’s success, having scored five goals and assisted three so far.

“After 13 years dedicated to professional football overseas, I feel it is the right time to announce my retirement and focus on other aspects of the game,” a statement from Schembri read. “I am proud to have had such a fantastic journey across Europe and Asia. It is not easy to leave such a small island like Malta and break through professional football,”added Schembri.

The versatile footballer had played for clubs in Germany, Austria, Hungary, Greece, Cyprus and Portugal before arriving in India. “I am filled with many emotions right now - pride, sadness, but most of all, excitement to play the final match of my career. Chennaiyin, I will give my all to bring the cup back to where it belongs!” he remarked.

Schembri comes from a long line of footballers with his father, grandfather and uncles having represented Malta at the highest level. Incidentally, he announced his retirement from international football in November 2018.

“I have been fortunate to have played, coached and managed some wonderful players and teams. I can safely say Schembri exemplifies everything you would want in a footballer. He is an outstanding professional who is prepared to sacrifice himself at times for the team,” said CFC head coach Owen Coyle.

“I wish him well for the future. Hopefully, we can win the final against ATK and give him a perfect send-off,” the gaffer shared his thoughts on Schembri’s farewell as a footballer.