Ribery: "I stayed in Salerno because I am very happy here"

played two games for

this season, one in Serie A and the other in the Coppa Italia, but revealed this week that his chronic knee injuries have left him unable to continue.

He cried as he said goodbye to the supporters at the Stadio Arechi today, but he has decided to continue with Salernitana as a member of coach

Davide Nicola

's staff. Ribery told DAZN after the 1-0 victory over

Spezia

, 

“I knew this was going to be a special day for me and it was wonderful being able to thank everyone, from the team to the President, the coach and the fans."

“I stayed in Salerno because I am very happy here and get along well with everyone. It was difficult when I realised that I would have to stop playing, but the club immediately made me this proposal, so I can stay close to the pitch.

“I think I can bring a lot to the table. I still don’t feel like I am in the role yet, but I do hope the players realise I can help them, I am proud of them and glad we got this important victory.”

"Football gave me everything. I had a difficult childhood, grew up on the streets, but it is important never to forget where you came from. I try to tell the young players that we are very fortunate to do this as a profession, that it’s wonderful to train and play. I would still be doing it too, but it is too painful. I do like the idea of being a coach, but there’s plenty of time for that.”

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