Kyoto Sanga have announced the retirement of former South Korea international Kim Nam-il.

The 39-year-old, who played for Sanga last season as well as for Vissel Kobe in 2008 and 2009, spent the majority of his career in his native South Korea but also repesented Dutch and Russian clubs.

“I’ve decided to end my playing career and take up a new challenge at the Korea Football Association,” said Kim, who participated in both the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. 

“I’m grateful for all of the warm support I received while I played in Kobe and Kyoto.

“I hope I can contribute not only to football in Korea, but to the development of the sport across Asia including Japan. 

“It would be wonderful if I could return to Kobe or Kyoto as a coach one day.”