Roberto Carlos calls time on his playing career

The 39-year-old, who is well-known for his powerful free-kicks, is expected to become a director at Anzhi Makhachkala, the club he has spent the last year playing for.

''Roberto had been a world class player, but unfortunately he doesn't play anymore," Anzhi coach Guus Hiddink said on Wednesday.

''Fortunately, Roberto will now take up a role to develop this club for the good of the game in the Dagestan region and the whole of Russia.''

The 2002 World Cup winner is hoping to arrange a farewell game against Real Madrid, the club he spent eleven years at between 1996 and 2007.

''We had met Real president Florentino Perez and discussed such a match between Real and Anzhi,'' Carlos told reporters.

''We need to set up a date that suits both clubs. I would like to have my farewell to be played in Makhachkala.''

Carlos began his playing career with União São João in 1990, but it was with Palmeiras that he made his name in the game. Spending three successful years with the Paulista giants, Carlos was eventually snapped up by Inter Milan in 1995, but signed for Real Madrid just a season later.

In his time at the Santiago Bernabeu, Carlos established himself to become one of the best left-backs of all time, winning 4 La Liga's, 3 Champions League's and 2 Intercontinental cups.

For Brazil he won 125 caps, two Copa America's, one Confederations cup and one World Cup.