Responding to Benatia s announcement, which he revealed on Instagram, Juventus striker Paulo Dybala sent a heart emoji to his former team-mate. Ex-Bayern winger Franck Ribery did likewise, with current Juve full-back Juan Cuadrado and former favourite Sami Khedira also among those that sent greetings.
Blaise Matuidi, the former Juventus and France midfield general, wrote: What a career, my brother. I remember those days at [French national football centre] Clairefontaine where we began to dream of being a professional footballer, but by dint of work you did much more than that. Incredible clubs, captain of a nation and having won a good number of titles, you can only be proud brother.
Manchester United defender Eric Bailly joined in the praise, writing: Bravo capitano. Great man, great career, very good player and finally an example.
Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi praised his former national team skipper, with the message: Capitanooo. Good luck in your new stage big bro.
Announcing his decision to retire, Benatia said: From a young age I had only one dream, to become a professional footballer. To get there, I had to force myself to work hard, make sacrifices, but above all set new goals at each stage of my career.
This job has also allowed me to defend and represent my country, Morocco, with whom I have experienced unforgettable moments in particular the 2018 World Cup.
