Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will retire at the end of the season.

The former Spain midfielder's 18th season as a professional will be his last, bringing down the curtain on a glittering career at club level and with his country.

Alonso was part of Spain's successful FIFA World Cup squad in 2010, as well as its UEFA Euro 2012-winning vintage, picking up 114 caps for La Roja.

The playmaker is also a two-time UEFA Champions League winner, having scored in Liverpool's incredible comeback to win the final in 2005 before helping Real Madrid to 'La Decima' in 2014. Bayern is also set for a deep run in this season's competition, having thrashed Arsenal 10-2 on aggregate in the Round of 16.

He is likely to step away from the game with a third Bundesliga title from as many seasons at Bayern, with a LaLiga winner's medal also in his pocket from his time at Real Madrid.

News of Xabi Alonso's retirement sparked a flood of tributes across social media, from his clubs past and present and a plethora of former team-mates.