Villarreal defender Mateo Musacchio has praised Francisco Javier Farinos, who recently announced his retirement from professional football.

Farinos, 35, has not played for the Spanish outfit since March due to an Achilles injury and announced his retirement at a press conference earlier this afternoon.

"It's news that I didn't expect and the truth is, it's a real shame. Whilst he wasn't the captain, because he hadn't been at the club for so long, he was an example to all of us in the team," Musacchio told reporters.

"He was always the first to arrive at training and the last to leave. He is a true example of professionalism. I wish him the very best of luck for the future and that he's happy."

Farinos made two appearances for Spain during a successful career.