March 22 (Reuters) - Former France ⁠midfielder Dimitri Payet announced his retirement from professional football ⁠on Sunday after a 21-year career.

The 38-year-old, who has ‌been without a club for nine months following a stint with Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, made the announcement during an emotional live interview at ​halftime of the Ligue 1 match between ⁠hosts Olympique de Marseille ⁠and Lille at the Stade Velodrome.