Luis Suarez has seemingly responded to reports he is set to retire from football with a cryptic social media post.
It was claimed earlier this week the former Liverpool striker, who now plays for Gremio in Brazil, could be forced to retire due to 'constant pain' being caused by a knee injury. This claim was backed up by Gremio president Alberto Guerra, who stated: "Luis Suarez is reaching his limit. To be able to play, he is given almost daily injections and special treatments; he feels constant pain. The thing is serious."
Even at the age of 36, the Uruguayan is continuing to score for fun and has helped his current club enjoy a strong start to life back in the top flight of Brazilian football courtesy of three goals and two assists in eight league appearances.
His latest effort arrived in a 3-1 victory over America-MG yesterday evening as the forward sent out a clear reminder to those doubting his ability to continue performing. Keen to respond to recent reports over potential retirement, Suarez's goal celebration spoke for itself. He later shared this image on his Instagram, accompanied by a zipped mouth emoji.
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The former Liverpool talisman signed for Gremio at the end of 2022 and marked his debut for the club on January 17 by bagging a hat-trick in a 4-1 Recopa Gaucha triumph. Suarez then helped his new employers to a second title, the Campeonato Gaucho, last month after securing a 2-1 aggregate win over Caxias.
He has recently been linked with a move to the MLS for a reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, though remains under contract at his current employers until December 2024. "This is false, it is impossible," Liverpool's one-time No.7 told Uruguayan newspaper El Observador regarding such reports. "I am very happy at Gremio and I have a contract until 2024."