Stephan Schrock’s announcement brings down the curtain on a 20-year career for the talented midfielder stretching from Germany to the Philippines.
Veteran booter Stephan Schrock is closing a chapter of his football career. For real, this time.
Schrock announced his retirement from playing professional football right on his 37th birthday on Wednesday, August 21.
“Today, I announce my retirement from professional football. Thank you to my amazing mother, who kickstarted this football journey, and to my incredible wife, the true backbone of my success,” the 38-year-old wrote on social media.
“Massive thanks also to all my coaches and teammates, you made my career unique. It’s been one hell of a wild ride. From humble beginnings in a social welfare house, wearing second-hand shoes, to representing both the German and Philippines national teams.”
Earlier last year, the Fil-German attacking midfielder announced his retirement from the national team following their defeat to Indonesia in the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup group stage.
But things changed when Hans Michael Weiss was reappointed as the head coach of the Philippine football team, paving the way for Schrock's return.
“From cage football and facing endless doubters to winning titles in Europe and Asia-the buzz has been unreal! I'm forever grateful for every moment. Here's to new ventures and new beginnings as I kickstart a new adventure.”
Schrock first played for the Philippines against Sri Lanka back in 2011. He was a key member of the squad, then known as the Azkals, that reached the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup final.
In the professional circuit, he joined Ceres Negros FC--later renamed United City--and won four straight titles in the Philippine Football League. He also suited up for the Azkals Development Team and CF Manila.
In 61 international caps, Schrock scored six goals.
He made his first international goal for the Philippines during the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification round against Kuwait. His final one was in 2019, helping beat Guam in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
This will not be the last time Schrock will step on a football field though, as he shifts his focus on the Azkals Development Academy.