Former Maidstone fans’ favourite Joan Luque has surprisingly decided to retire.

Spanish winger Luque, 32, has opted to return to his home country.

It comes after ambitious Isthmian Premier outfit Folkestone had beaten off real competition for his signature in early June.

Luque left the Stones last summer after missing the entire of the 2022/23 National League season following knee surgery.

The campaign before that, he had starred as Maidstone won National League South, scoring 22 goals and laying on plenty more before he suffered the long-term injury against Dartford.

On social media on Tuesday, Luque posted: “I thank every club, coach, team-mate and fan for their unwavering support and for believing in me.

“During all this time, I’ve defended the colours of 21 different clubs, lived in 11 different cities, discovered a new country, played over 411 games, (had) five play-offs for promotion, got promoted two times, won National League South and the award for player-of-the-year and scored 123 official goals.

“I would like to make a special mention to these past seven years in England - a country that opened the doors to a 25-year-old me to be a footballer.

“After playing here for such a long time, I can confirm what I thought before even landing: The passion of the English for football is unmatched. Weekends transform into a celebration of the sport with fans travelling incredible distances to support their teams, regardless of the weather or the outcome.

“Not to speak about those Tuesday nights under the lights, the creativity for their chants or to feel first hand the magic of the FA Cup - what an unbelievable feeling. In England, football is not just a sport; it is a way of life, and I've been lucky enough to be a part of it.

“Saying goodbye is never easy but it’s a necessary step in this new chapter of my life. I carry with me indelible memories, valuable lessons, and the most valuable thing, the affection of all of you.

“Now, I look to the future with optimism, knowing that every end has a new beginning.

“Although I'm saying goodbye to playing, my love for this sport will always be present in my life.

“Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. I’m eternally grateful for every moment lived and for the unwavering support I have received.

“Goodbye for now, football. Love you all, Luque!”

Former Barcelona Academy player Luque first played in the UK for Heybridge Swifts, where his 30-goal haul earned a transfer to the Football League with Lincoln.

He counts Bromley, Worthing, Concord and Dagenham among his other former clubs.