Antonio Bareiro announces retirement from professional football

Paraguayan striker Antonio ‘Demonio’ Bareiro has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 37. The former national team player shared the decision via social media, expressing deep emotion regarding the end of a career that began in Caazapá.

Bareiro’s career was highlighted by a highly successful tenure at Libertad, where he won nine league titles and three other official trophies, as well as appearances in the Copa Libertadores and for the Paraguayan national team. He also played for clubs including General Díaz, Olimpia, Guaraní, and most recently, Deportivo Capiatá.

Reflecting on his decision, Bareiro cited persistent injuries—specifically a double rupture of his cruciate ligaments during the 2019 Copa América—as a primary factor in his declining performance levels. He noted that while his family encouraged him to continue, he felt he could no longer compete at a high level. Looking forward, Bareiro expressed interest in potentially transitioning into a role as an assistant coach.