Former Roma and Sampdoria star Vincenzo Montella has confirmed his retirement from professional football.

Montella, who began his professional career with Empoli in 1990, became a legend at Italian giants Roma, scoring 94 times for the club in a 10 year spell.

Despite no longer representing the club on the field, Montella has been offered a role coaching Roma's youth squads, a chance which the 35-year-old is grateful for.

"It will take a while to get used to this idea, but there are moments in life when you have to make choices and have the strength to quit when someone might still care," he said.

"I thank Roma for the chance they have given me to work with youngsters, it's an adventure I am facing with enthusiasm.

"The club were very clear with me on that, I have a very good relationship with the club, which has matured with time. The role of preparing and educating the youth team isn't marginal, it gives me great pride."

Montella was under contract with Roma from 1999 onwards, but made brief loan spells at Fulham and Sampdoria.

The striker also represented Italy 20 times between 1999 and 2005, scoring on three occasions.