Frank Ribery suffered a career-ending injury in his final season, revealing a shocking flesh-eating infection that nearly cost him his leg.
The 41-year-old Bayern Munich legend underwent a routine operation on his knee, but a bad infection almost five months later led to holes in his leg.
What happened?
Ribery had a plate inserted in his knee during the operation in Austria, but the infection had eaten away at him, contracting Staphylococcus aureus.
He spent 12 days in the emergency room, really scared, as doctors considered cutting off his leg.
Why it matters for Frank Ribery
The ex-winger retired in 2022, ending his trophy-laden career in the Serie A with Salernitana, after the infection forced him to stop playing.
Ribery's final season was marked by a decline in his performance, as he was no longer training between matches, but rather recovering to protect himself.
What comes next?
The French outlet L'Équipe reported Ribery's story, giving insight into the shocking turn of events that led to his retirement.
As Ribery looks back on his career, he remembers the tough times, including the infection that nearly cost him his leg.
And now, Ribery is focused on his life after football, grateful for the career he had.
But the memory of the infection will stay with him, a reminder of the risks of the sport he loves.
So, Ribery's story serves as a warning to other players, highlighting the importance of proper medical care.
The incident occurred in his final season, dated 2022, a year that marked the end of his playing career.