Udinese manager Francesco Guidolin has revealed his shock at Antonio Di Natale's decision to announce his retirement.
The 34-year-old confirmed that he will finish his playing career at the end of the season, but Guidolin admits that he had not spoken to the forward about his plans prior to the announcement.
"I have learned that now in the press room," he told reporters. "It's definitely a moment of discouragement after losing a game like this, at such a delicate moment.
"I don't know what else to say because I have not spoken with Toto or anyone else. In a moment of bitterness, though, there are things that go through your head that you don't want to say.
"I see Toto every day, and at the moment he is perhaps not going through on goal with the usual ease. But that happens to all big players – which is what he remains. We need him from here on out. It's a complicated season. I will try to change his mind."
Di Natale announced his retirement following Udinese's 3-1 defeat against Hellas Verona in Serie A on Monday.
Alex Meyers
