Diego Forlan: I do not feel like an Atletico Madrid icon LaLiga Spoke to Radio MARCA after retiring

Diego Forlan enjoyed one of his most successful periods of his illustrious career with Atletico Madrid, but the Uruguayan does not feel like he will go down as an icon in the eyes of the fans.

The 40-year-old announced his decision to retire from football on Wednesday after a 22 years as a professional.

Speaking of the decision, Forlan admits that it had been on his mind for some time and eventually had to make the tough call.

"I was already analysing and thinking about it, I had to make a decision," he told MARCA's Juan Castro.

"I had an offer to continue playing but the truth is that I wasn't very motivated.

"I want to take advantage of this time to relax and be with my family."

Despite scoring 74 goals in 134 LaLiga Santander appearances for Atletico Madrid, Forlan does not feel he will go down as one of their all-time favourites.

"I do not feel like an Atletico icon," he said.

"I feel very loved by the fans of all the clubs I played for in the past.

"The fans of Villarreal and Atletico showed me lots of affection.

"It also impresses me the respect and admiration shown to me by rival fans," he stated.