Former Barcelona forward, Sergio Aguero says he is strong to face all odds due to the immense support he has received from his family, fans and colleagues during his career.

The Argentine says during his stay at Independiente, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Barcelona, and Argentina's national team, his fans stood by him through "thick and thin."

"...Your support has made me stronger. My biggest achievement has been earning the respect of my colleagues, and the love from the world of football. That's something that won't change - I'll keep it in my heart and it will make me strong for what's to come."

Although his career as a professional footballer is over, Aguero says "life goes on" and for that reason he will face this new stage of life with "positivity, enthusiasm and joy."

The 33-year-old on Wednesday, announced his retirement at Barcelona. Aguero retired due to health complications.

The day was filled with sadness as "Kun" sobbed when he bid farewell to all who played a role in his 18 years career.

"I've always known that I'd give it all to have a chance to play again. However, after the last exams, I was advised by my doctors to cease practicing professional football. Their works were sufficient to make a choice. Retiring under these circumstances is difficult, but life comes first - I've known that from the start."

pic.twitter.com/Fek43kBimL

— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) December 15, 2021

The retired professional admitted that he has learnt a lot of lessons and what echoes loud to him now is defeat can be transformed into victory.

He says although what has happened is painful, it cannot be considered as a tragedy.

"A tragedy would have been another thing altogether. My thoughts are not on the time I could have played on, they are on the wonderful 18 years I did get to play.

This amazing career will remain with me, and so will carrying it out with passion and dedication year after year. I keep the affection and care I received from each of the teams I played for when I was just a kid," Aguero added.

+3 🤟🏽 https://t.co/YAEo5rUvNI

— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) August 29, 2021

He used the platform to express immense gratitude to his family, colleagues and agents for all the years they spent together - enabling him become what the world sees today.

"I want to thank all the trainers, team-mates, colleagues, staff, physios and managers who allowed me to develop my career in the best of conditions. My special gratitude goes to my family and friends, who were always by my side. And to my agents, the same I've kept since I was 14 years of age, who accompanied me with the utmost professionalism and honesty."

Nunca dejen de intentarlo. Nunca dejen de creer. Campeones!!! Te amo 🇦🇷 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OwTYEIlhhd

— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) July 11, 2021

In reaction to his retirement, Real Madrid, Kevin De Bruyne, John Terry, Alan Shearer wished the star farewell; indicating that Aguero is "one of the best players in the world”.

Aguero is the fourth-highest scoring player in Premier League history with 184 goals in 275 games, behind only Alan Shearer (260), Wayne Rooney (208) and Andrew Cole (187).

He is also the league’s highest-scoring overseas player, having registered nine more goals than Thierry Henry (175), according to BBC’s stats on the player.