Jan Vertonghen has confirmed his retirement from professional football, ending a 20-year career that took him from Ajax to the Premier League, and firmly into Tottenham folklore.
The Belgian centre-back gave a heartfelt interview to Vivi Le Vélo, relayed by Voetbal Nieuws, explaining that his body is “completely worn out” after persistent injury setbacks.
Vertonghen made his final appearance in May during a match between Anderlecht and Club Brugge, following his retirement announcement in March.
“My Body Is Worn Out” – Vertonghen Reflects on Decision
Vertonghen revealed the physical strain had reached a tipping point, especially after recurring Achilles tendon and calf injuries in recent seasons.
“My body is completely worn out for top-level sport,” he said. “I pushed it to the limit. Maybe that wasn’t good, but I don’t regret it.” — Jan Vertonghen, via *Vivi Le Vélo*
In 2024 alone, he missed 27 games for Anderlecht due to a prolonged Achilles issue. From 2023 to 2025, he suffered six separate injuries, missing 53 matches and spending almost 300 days on the treatment table.
He spoke candidly about trying to drive from Antwerp to Grenoble and pulling his calf mid-journey — a moment that made it clear he could no longer operate at an elite level.
Jan Vertonghen – Career Snapshot
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax | 2006–2012 | 220 | 28 |
| Tottenham | 2012–2020 | 315 | 14 |
| Benfica | 2020–2022 | 89 | 1 |
| Anderlecht | 2022–2025 | 88 | 3 |
| Total | – | 712 | 46 |
Analyst Verdict: A Spurs Legend to Remember
Few defenders left a mark on Tottenham like Jan Vertonghen. Composed, intelligent, and versatile across the back line, he was central to Mauricio Pochettino’s era — a leader on and off the pitch.
While injuries caught up with him in the final years, his legacy at Spurs is secure. He was a rock in the heart of defence for over 300 matches and part of the squad that reached the 2019 Champions League final.
There are few better examples of a top-level professional who gave absolutely everything.
Key Insights
- Jan Vertonghen has retired from football at age 38.
- He made 315 appearances for Tottenham between 2012–2020.
- Persistent Achilles and calf injuries led to 53 games missed in his final two years.
- He admits his body is “worn out” but feels liberated after retirement.
- Vertonghen played over 700 senior games in his career across four clubs.
What’s Next for Jan Vertonghen?
Now retired, Vertonghen says he finally gets to enjoy holidays without the pressure of recovery or training plans.
While coaching or punditry could be on the horizon, for now, the former Spurs man is focused on rest, family, and life after football.
What’s your favourite Vertonghen moment in a Spurs shirt?
Should he be considered among Tottenham’s best defenders of the Premier League era?
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