By RYAN TOLMICH

After nearly 20 years as a professional, Marcos Senna’s playing career is set to end at the conclusion of the NASL’s Fall Season.

The New York Cosmos announced Wednesday that the 38-year-old midfielder will retire at season’s end, his third with the club. Upon his retirement, Senna will return to his native Spain but remain with the Cosmos organization in an international development role.

“I’ve been blessed to have had the career I’ve had and fortunate to play with some truly exceptional players and teams,” Senna said. “Right now, my body feels great and I want to make sure that I’m able to retire while I’m playing well and on my own terms.

“The move to New York and joining the Cosmos has been fantastic for my family and we’ve experienced some truly unforgettable memories here in the U.S.”

Senna joined the Cosmos in 2013, leading the club to the NASL championship in its first year of the modern era. In total, Senna has made 43 appearances for the club, scoring 11 times, including the winner in the 2013 NASL championship game.

“From the day that he signed with us, Marcos has been a tremendous presence,” head coach Giovanni Savarese said. “His leadership has helped the team and he’s played at an incredibly high level for us. We’ve been honored to have Marcos with us the past two years and he will be a part of the Cosmos family forever.”

Prior to joining the Cosmos, Senna spent 11 years as a member of Spain’s Villarreal, making over 300 appearances while leading the club to a Champions League semifinal. A former captain of both Villarreal and the Spanish National team, Senna made 28 international appearances and was selected to the Euro 2008 Team of the Tournament for his role in Spain’s triumph.

What do you think of Senna’s upcoming retirement? How will you remember his time with the Cosmos?

Share your thoughts below.