Eric Abidal admits he's turned down a coaching offer from Barcelona to continue playing next season. Rather than announce his retirement on a high note and move into a non-playing role with the Spanish giants - Barcelona today proposed a technical director role overlooking their international academies - the 33-year-old is convinced he has plenty to offer another team.

"I'd have loved to have stayed here but I have to accept the club's decision (of not offering me a new a contract)," Abidal said at a press conference on Thursday.

"My idea is to keep playing and I have not changed my mind, health permitting."

The Catalan club offered every support to Abidal during his recovery from the transplant last April, having previously had surgery to remove a tumour in March 2011.

That has not been lost on Abidal, who added: "It's a very difficult day for me.

"I have played here for six years, and it's been the biggest experience of my life. I had two aims: to fight to be able to see my two daughters grow up and to play again.

"I want to thank all the fans of the club who have supported me and have been looking after me.

"The team is my second family. We have gone through a lot together and I'll remember this forever.

"I'm going, but I'll be sure to return. I want to thank all the fans of the club who have supported me and have been looking after me."