Arturo Vidal returns to his hometown club Colo Colo as a celebrated hero

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Horse and rider: Arturo Vidal with horse in Chile

Photo: Marcelo Hernandez / Photosport / IMAGO

Former Bundesliga professional Arturo Vidal received a majestic welcome at the official presentation of his new club Colo Colo in Chile. To great cheers from many fans, the 36-year-old first landed in a helicopter at the Monumental Stadium in Santiago. Then he rode through the arena on a horse wearing a cape, crown and sword, waving to the supporters of the Chilean club with a smile. Numerous supporters held up jerseys with Vidal's name in the air.

The former Munich and Leverkusen player returns to his youth club Colo Colo after 17 years. At the age of 20, the midfielder moved to Europe and, in addition to the Bundesliga, also played for Juventus Turin, FC Barcelona and Inter Milan. Before returning home, Vidal last played for Athletico-PR in Brazil. Colo Colo will be his last stop as a professional footballer. His contract runs until the end of the year.