Barthez to quit after World Cup

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez will retire from football after the 2006 World Cup.

The 33-year-old Marseille stopper is currently in Clairefontaine ahead of France’s qualifying double against Switzerland and Israel.

“2006 will be the year I stop football for good,” confirmed Barthez on Thursday.

“I love what I am doing and am still motivated by my job, but I am 33 and I don’t have many seasons left ahead of me."