FORMER Arsenal winger Marc Overmars has quit as Royal Antwerp’s technical director due to health concerns.
The Dutchman, 53, overcame an initial worldwide ban to stay in his role for four years.
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But, having suffered irreparable damage to his heart after a cardiac arrest in December 2022, Overmars has now stepped down with immediate effect following medical advice.
And the one-time Champions League winner penned an emotional letter to Royal Antwerp fans.
Overmars said: “All the years of accumulated fatigue and the immense stress sadly reached a climax this past weekend.
“You all know that my health is not optimal. However, I now feel very clearly that I can no longer handle this hectic, stressful professional life.
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“Discussions regarding a contract extension were well underway. But my health forces me to be honest with myself and everyone around me.
“My energy is completely depleted today. If I don’t listen to my body now, my doctors predict that the chance of a bad outcome is very high.
“So I have to make a drastic decision and completely cease my professional activities for the time being.”
Overmars won the Premier League and FA Cup during his three-year spell with Arsenal.
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The Gunners legend, who went on to join Barcelona in 2000, also found the net 40 times in 141 appearances for the North Londoners.
But Overmars was at the centre of controversy when he was Ajax’s director of football.
He admitted to being “ashamed” for sending inappropriate messages to female colleagues, which led to his exit from the Eredivisie giants.
Overmars was still handed the chance to reignite his career away from the pitch when Royal Antwerp came calling a month after his departure.
The ex-Netherlands international, who handed back his £1million bonus at Ajax, is proud of the role he played at the Bosuilstadion.
He added: “What we have achieved together in terms of sports has been immortalised in the history books of Belgian football.
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“But above all, I feel an enormous connection to this club and all Royal Antwerp supporters. And that will always remain so.
“I may no longer have the strongest heart, but it beats for this club, now and in the future.”