Simon Kjaer will not return to the pitch. The 35-year-old Dane, who has been without a club since leaving AC Milan last summer, has now decided to retire from professional football, as he announced himself on TV channel TV2.
Simon Kjaer’s decision to retire from football marks the conclusion of an illustrious career that spanned nearly two decades and left an indelible mark on the sport.
Despite receiving numerous offers after leaving AC Milan on a free transfer, Kjaer opted to walk away from the game on his terms. "I had offers from the top five European leagues and could have played in the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League," he revealed. "It’s not that there weren’t opportunities, but it’s also about the role you’re given." For Kjaer, the decision was as much about preserving his dignity and legacy as it was about finding the right fit.
The Danish defender’s career was a testament to consistency, leadership, and resilience. Though he reached his peak in the latter years of his career, Kjaer’s journey through football was as varied as it was impressive. After making his professional debut with FC Midtjylland in Denmark, Kjaer quickly caught the attention of scouts across Europe. His big move came in 2008 when he signed with Palermo in Serie A, a club that became his launching pad onto the European stage. From there, he showcased his talents at a host of top clubs, including VfL Wolfsburg, AS Roma, Lille, Fenerbahçe, Sevilla, Atalanta, and finally AC Milan, where he enjoyed his most stable and successful period, making 121 appearances for the Rossoneri.
While his club career was storied, Kjaer’s international exploits were equally remarkable. A cornerstone of the Danish national team for more than a decade, he earned 132 caps, a figure that places him among the most-capped players in Denmark’s history, just eight short of record-holder Christian Eriksen. Kjaer represented Denmark at four major international tournaments: the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2012, the 2018 World Cup, and Euro 2020. His performances on the pitch were consistently solid, but it was his off-pitch actions at Euro 2020 that cemented his status as a national hero.
Kjaer made global headlines during Euro 2020 for his courageous and selfless actions when his teammate Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch during a match against Finland. As Eriksen collapsed, Kjaer was the first to respond, ensuring his airway was clear and administering crucial first aid before medical professionals arrived. He also organized his teammates to form a human shield around Eriksen, protecting his privacy during a traumatic moment, and consoled Eriksen’s partner on the sidelines. These acts of leadership and humanity earned him widespread praise, with UEFA honoring him for his bravery and Denmark naming him Footballer of the Year in 2021.
Kjaer’s crowning achievement at club level came in 2022 when he helped AC Milan secure their first Serie A title in over a decade. His calm presence in defense and his leadership qualities were instrumental in guiding a young Milan side to glory. For Kjaer, it was a fitting reward for years of hard work and dedication. “Winning the Scudetto with Milan was a dream come true,” he said in a later interview. “It was a culmination of everything I had worked for in my career.”
Off the pitch, Kjaer has always been a figure of humility and professionalism. Known for his calm demeanor and unwavering commitment, he served as a role model for younger players throughout his career. His decision to retire rather than accept a diminished role at another club speaks to his principles and his desire to step away from the game while still at a high level.
Reflecting on his journey, Kjaer expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences football had given him. "It’s been an incredible journey," he said during his retirement announcement. "I’ve played for some amazing clubs, competed at the highest level, and represented my country with pride. I feel lucky to have lived my dream."
As Kjaer moves on from professional football, his legacy is secure. Whether as a stalwart defender, a leader on and off the pitch, or a hero in a moment of crisis, Simon Kjaer will be remembered as one of Denmark’s finest footballing ambassadors. His career serves as a reminder that football is not just about trophies and statistics but also about character, leadership, and humanity.
