Valverde argues that "it is better to end like this" despite good form towards final career race

Alejandro Valverde will finish his long career as a pro cyclist at Il Lombardia. The Movistar Team rider has anticipated this day for several years, but despite the good signs given in the past few weeks, he argues that it's the right decision.

“Seeing the state of form that I am in right now, which is the same as I was 10 years ago, and seeing that I am with the best, I have even considered whether to continue… But no, it is better to end like this," he said in a recent interview.

The veteran, currently sitting at 42 years of age, has admitted once again having second thoughts over his retirement. This season he's ridden to a second place at Flèche Wallone and Strade Bianche, aswell as taking wins early in the year - as is traditional - at the Trofeo Pollença and Gran Camiño.

It was his recent results that have seen him reconsider however, as he rode to second at Coppa Agostoni, third at Tre Valli Varesine and fourth at the Giro dell'Emilia. Valverde is ending his season and career in these Italian classics, and he argues his form is as good as it was ten years ago, and remains in fully competitive form against the world's very best.

However, the decision as been made, and like his compatriot Alberto Contador, Valverde is likely looking to retire on a high. His final race will be this Saturday's Il Lombardia where he will be a favourite, and having Enric Mas in terrific form sees the Spanish team with two weapons towards the possible goal.