Real Madrid, Spain legend Raul to end playing career in November

New York Cosmos forward Raul has announced his intention to retire at the end of the current North American Soccer League season.

The former Real Madrid striker was the club's all-time top goal-scorer until he was surpassed by Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this month, and is also second in Spain's top scorers list to New York City FC's David Villa.

"It's not an easy moment, but I think it's the right moment to say goodbye," Raul told ONE World Sports on Thursday. "It was a difficult decision."

As well as his impressive goal-scoring exploits, the 38-year-old picked up a host of accolades over his 21-year career. He has collected honours in the United States, Qatar, and Germany, and can count three Champions League wins and six La Liga titles among his many achievements in the Spanish capital.

His contract with the Cosmos guaranteed a full-time position as a youth coach at the close of his playing career, although it's unknown if he will assume the role when the club ends its campaign after November's NASL playoffs.