Roberto Baggio has decided to retire, his agent Vittorio Petrone revealed tonight.
The 34-year-old underwent knee reconstruction surgery today and is facing a five-month lay-off.
Petrone told Italian television: "We were hoping for a different outcome right from the beginning of the medical tests but now Roberto wants to quit football. He wants to change his lifestyle."
Petrone insisted he has not given up hope of the 34-year-old making a comeback.
"We will try to change his mind. Personally, I have one more dream _ to see him return to the football field," he added.
"Even if he has missed his chance with the World Cup, he deserves to return to playing."
Baggio was stretchered off during the second half of last Thursday's Coppa Italia tie at Parma.
