Marcell Jansen retires after being released by Hamburg: 'I can't just suddenly kiss another badge'

Marcell Jansen is hanging up his cleats at the young age of 29.

After being released by Hamburger SV at the end of last season, Jansen announced his retirement on Wednesday, citing his loyalty to the club as the main factor behind the decision.

"I thought about it on holiday," Jansen told Bild, according to the Guardian. "There were a lot of good offers but for me carrying on is not an option. I am fit, can move on a free transfer, could still earn good money but I prefer to renounce the money.

"In the last few years I was very emotionally tied to HSV. I will continue to live in Hamburg and will always love this club. Gladbach (Borussia Monchengladbach), of course, as well. But now some new club? No, I don't want to lie or deceive some other club or fans when I am no longer fully behind it.

"I can't just suddenly kiss another badge now. That wouldn't be right. I am myself too much of a fan for that."

Jansen, predominantly a left-back, notched two goals and one assist through 15 Bundesliga appearances last season as Hamburg narrowly avoided its first-ever relegation from the top flight of German football, defeating Karlsruher SC in a thriller of a playoff to remain afloat.

At the international level, Jansen made 45 appearances for Germany and was part of his country's squad at the 2006 World Cup and the 2010 World Cup, helping the national team to a third-place finish at both competitions.