Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina has announced his retirement from football at the age of 38, bringing a remarkable career across several countries and the Colombian national team to an end. According to a report by Football London on Friday, November 6, 2026, Ospina made the announcement on Wednesday while registered with Mexican club Atlante, reflecting on the opportunities and experiences football had given him.

In a farewell message shared on social media, the goalkeeper expressed gratitude for the journey and suggested that his affection for the sport would remain even though he would no longer compete. He wrote: “I say to football, thank you! I will not give it up… but I am grateful! It has been a wonderful journey! From now on, I will go wherever my smile takes me.”

Ospina became a familiar name in European football through his six-season spell at French club Nice. His performances there helped him secure a move to Arsenal in 2014, beginning a four-year period in the Premier League. He remained with the north London side until 2018, making appearances across domestic competitions while competing for the goalkeeper position.

His opportunities at Arsenal were limited by the presence of Petr Čech, who was established as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper during much of Ospina’s time in England. As a result, the Colombian was not regularly selected for league matches, but he still featured in cup competitions and contributed whenever called upon. His spell at the Emirates formed an important chapter in a career that took him through several European leagues.

Following his departure from Arsenal in 2018, Ospina continued his career in Italy, joining Napoli. He spent four years with the Serie A club before moving to Saudi Arabia in 2022 to sign for Al-Nassr. His time there lasted until 2024, adding another experience to a career that had already included football in France and England.

Ospina’s contribution to Colombia was significant. He earned 131 caps for the national team, placing him among the most-capped players in the country’s history. His appearance total puts him alongside Colombian football figures, including James Rodríguez, in the group of players who have represented their country often.

At club and international level combined, Ospina made more than 600 appearances. That record reflects the longevity of his career and the consistency required to remain involved across different competitions, teams and footballing environments. His experience also made him a regular presence for Colombia over an extended period.

His retirement therefore closes a career that stretched across multiple leagues and included a substantial international record. From his early development in France to his time in the Premier League, Serie A and Saudi Arabia, Ospina experienced different styles of football while maintaining a prominent role for his country.

Although he has stepped away from playing, his farewell comments suggest that football will remain part of his life. Ospina leaves the game with more than 600 appearances, 131 international caps and memories from a career that carried him across continents.