Sneijder could continue playing as agent admits 'complete surprise' to retirement announcement

Wesley Sneijder's retirement announcement came as "a complete surprise" to his agent, who says the Netherlands great could yet continue playing.

Former Inter star Sneijder suggested on Monday his playing days were over as Utrecht announced a new business agreement with the 35-year-old.

However, the playmaker's representative, Guido Albers, says a final decision will not be made until he has met with Sneijder to discuss his plans.

"It was a complete surprise for us that he announced it this way," he said to FOX Sports.

"I had planned a meeting with him next Thursday to discuss the options he still has and then we were going to decide how to announce this to the public. So, next Thursday we can decide if this decision is certain."

134-voudig International @sneijder101010 tekende een contract in @Galgenwaard030 De geboren Utrechter zal dit seizoen de thuiswedstrijden bekijken vanuit zijn eigen skybox en treedt hiermee toe tot de FC Utrecht Business Club. Lees hier meer https://t.co/kf4VFP48MQ

— FC Utrecht (@fcutrecht) August 12, 2019

He said of Sneijder's apparent confirmation of his retirement on Monday: "Let's just say it was a slip of the tongue.

"He has some things to do in Doha, where he still lives and there are still a few clubs who probably want to sign him, so I'd like to tell him about that.

"He just came back from America. We will discuss it on Thursday and then he can decide what to do. Normally you consult each other about these things, but I think he just announced it in all his enthusiasm today."

Sneijder had told Utrecht's official TV channel: "I have a lot of love for this city. Now that I've quit playing, I want a nice place to share my experiences."

The all-time leading appearance-maker for Netherlands has been without a club since his contract with Al-Gharafa expired last month.