[Official] Ex-Lazio Forward Kozák Closes His Football Chapter

After Pepe Reina, another former Lazio icon has called time on his football career. Libor Kozák, the powerful Czech striker who once lit up the Europa League, has officially announced his retirement from professional football. The 35-year-old shared the news on Instagram with a heartfelt and simple message: “Thank you football”, accompanied by a red heart—marking the end of a journey that spanned nearly two decades.

Kozák is well remembered in Rome, especially by Lazio fans. He joined the club in 2008 from Czech team SFC Opava and spent five unforgettable years wearing the Lazio jersey. During his time in Rome, he played 80 matches and scored 22 goals. One of his biggest achievements was becoming the top scorer in the 2012/13 UEFA Europa League. That same season, he helped Lazio win the Coppa Italia by beating their biggest rivals, Roma, in a historic final.

Kozák’s football journey took him beyond Italy, with spells at Brescia, Aston Villa in the English Premier League, and Bari, before eventually returning to his homeland to close his career with SFC Opava—the club where it all began. His career, marked by resilience, goals, and a deep passion for the game, also included appearances for the Czech national team.

In his farewell message, Kozák expressed gratitude to all the teams that believed in him and to the sport that gave him purpose. Turning 36 this May, he steps away from the pitch with pride and a collection of unforgettable memories.

As Libor Kozák hangs up his boots, the football world salutes a striker who played with heart, left his mark across leagues, and gave Lazio fans moments they will never forget.