Sanfrecce Hiroshima on Monday announced that midfielder Mihael Mikic will not renew his contract with the club following the conclusion of the 2017 MEIJI YASUDA J1 League season.

The 37-year-old joined in 2009, contributing to Sanfrecce’s three league titles in 2012, 2013, and 2015. As of the announcement, he had scored eight goals in 221 J1 appearances.

“Looking back these were an amazingly complete nine years. Under the tutelage of my wonderful managers [Mihailo] Petrovic and [Hajime] Moriyasu and alongside talented team-mates we played attractive football. Our three titles and two FIFA World Cup appearances contributed to an unforgettable career,” Mikic said.

“Unfortunately I won’t be able to play at Hiroshima next season. I may not be able to help the team escape its current situation this season. But in these last three matches I want to do everything I can to help avoid relegation. 

“Our fight will be difficult until the very end but all of us will play our best. Thank you for your support over the last nine years.”