Why Chiellini Picked the Worst Time to Retire?

Who would've thought a legendary defender would become a fan favorite in the city of Hollywood? Yep, we’re talking about Giorgio Chiellini, the Italian gladiator who retired in 2023 after a short but unforgettable stint in Major League Soccer (MLS).

In June 2022, Chiellini arrived in the MLS with a resume that was basically a warrior's scroll, fresh off the Roman Coliseum and onto Hollywood’s soccer fields. This guy had led Juventus’ defense for over a decade, racked up titles in Italy, and lifted the Euros with Italy’s Azzurri. At 37, he didn’t come to the U.S. to coast or take a long vacation; nope, he was here to compete, and honestly, he did it in style.

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His debut in July 2022 was exactly what you'd expect from a player of his stature: solid, controlling the backline with that touch of class only the greats possess. When he was subbed off in the 60th minute against Nashville SC, you could see it. The guy still had plenty left to give. His presence, that leadership aura, head held high, almost like he was saying, "Relax, this isn’t over yet."

And it wasn’t. By November, Chiellini hit what may have been the peak of his short time in the U.S. – hoisting the MLS Cup with LAFC. That win didn’t just cement his name at the club; it etched him into MLS history. After a nail-biting final that went to penalties against the Philadelphia Union, the Italian veteran proved that even at his age, he could lead a team to the summit.

What’s funny about all this is that despite his rugged, no-nonsense style on the field, Chiellini charmed the LA crowd. Maybe it was the contrast. The guy’s like a fine Italian wine – just gets better with time and surprises you when you least expect it. Case in point? Who thought he’d net his first MLS goal in 2023, during a tight win over the Portland Timbers? Epic moment.

But not long after tasting the sweet thrill of victory in 2022, Chiellini and LAFC felt the sting of defeat in the 2023 MLS Cup final against Columbus Crew. It was one of those bitter moments, like sipping on a burnt espresso. And just three days after that loss, Chiellini announced his retirement from professional soccer.

Sure, we could romanticize this farewell in all sorts of ways, but the truth is, at 39, Chiellini felt it was time to hang up the cleats and step into a new chapter of life. You can’t really blame the guy, right? Modern soccer’s brutal on aging players, and even the toughest warriors eventually fall to the inevitable.

Looking back on his legacy in the U.S., it’s impossible to ignore the impact he had on LAFC. He brought a winning mentality that no doubt played a key role in the team’s success in 2022, including clinching the Supporters' Shield – the trophy awarded to the team with the best regular season record. But more than that, Chiellini helped elevate the league itself, proving the MLS isn’t just a landing spot for aging stars looking to coast but a place where they can still make a difference.

Did he retire at the right time, though? Could he have helped LAFC win more titles in 2024? Tough to say. What’s clear is he left with his head held high, without letting the natural decline of age tarnish his legacy. He exited on his own terms, like the smart defender he’s always been – anticipating the end before it could catch him off guard. So, when it’s all said and done, Chiellini’s journey in Los Angeles was short, but boy, was it unforgettable.