CLASSY Didier Drogba took time to console devastated fans even after being denied a fairytale end to his career. The Chelsea legend – who plays for and co-owns Phoenix Rising – suffered heartbreak as his side lost 1-0 to Louisville City in the USL Cup final, his final game.
At full-time, Drogba approached the Phoenix faithful, hugged one gutted fan and told him: “Don’t cry, don’t cry.”
He proceeded to shake supporters’ hands and thank them.
His fellow owner Berke Bakay hailed the 40-year-old for his “amazing contributions to the beautiful sport”. Bakay tweeted: “You have laid the foundation of something really special that we are all going to enjoy for many years to come!” Drogba inspired second-division Phoenix to the final with three goals in three play-off games, but was stopped in his tracks against Louisville.
Luke Spencer dealt the killer blow in the second half after a penalty box scramble. Drogba said last month: “I joke with people that they need to give me the cup, so I can retire in peace. And that if I don’t get it, I’ll come back. “But the truth is, this is my last season.”
