The news that Raul is due to be released by Shalke 04 in the summer was almost enough to make grown men misty-eyed - the prospect of the Madrid legend indulging in a second swansong at your club warms the cockles, regardless of his age.
Not all ancient footballers evoke the same romanticism - think Michael Owen at Manchester United - but there remains a crop of stalwarts still plying their trade across Europe who would be welcomed with open arms at whichever club they chose to retire at.
I give you - The Geriatricos.
Goalkeeper - Gianluigi Buffon - A relative youngster - especially for a goalkeeper - at 34 years old, Buffon seems to have been around forever. Widely regarded as one of the world's best for the last 15 years, and a World Cup winner in 2006.
Full-Back - Michel Salgado - Currently stuck in a rut winding down his contract at the Cirque De Blackburn, Salgado was fantastic during his ten-year stint at Real Madrid.
Centre-Half - Alessandro Nesta - Maturing much like former partner-in-crime Maldini, it's now been almost 20 years since Nesta first appeared for Lazio. World Cup winner and European Cup winner - twice.
Full-Back - Roberto Carlos - Now pushing 40, Carlos is currently with mega-rich Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala. He was renowned for his free-kicks - after his Confederations Cup stunner against France - but in truth he was pretty naff at them.
Midfield - David Beckham - He may have sacrificed the back-end of his career by heading for the glitz and glamour of LA - but he still owns the world's best right-foot.
Midfield - Paul Scholes - The 37 year old saviour of Manchester United's season. Metronomic, flawless passing mixed with amusing, play-ground tackling.
Midfield - Clarence Seedorf - He's won the European Cup 4 times with 3 clubs in a career spanning 20 years. A refreshing presence alongside messrs Lineker and Hansen during the BBC's 2010 World Cup coverage.
Midfield - Juan Carlos Valeron - Lynchpin of the Deportivo side which reached the European Cup semi-final in 2004. Adored at the Riazor.
Attack - Alessandro Del Piero - Made the most appearances and scored the most goals in the history of the mighty Juventus - staying with them despite their forced season long stint in the Serie B.
Attack - Ruud Van Nistelrooy - Lionel Messi recently reached his 50th Champions League goal after 66 games, Ruud managed it in 62. Prolific.
Attack - Raul - 323 goals in 741 matches for Real Madrid along with every trophy imaginable. Matured like a fine wine at Shalke 04 - now a free agent.
Adopting a 3-4-3 formation, it's a team of nostalgia and class. If games finished after 30 minutes, they'd be unbeatable.