Dutch veteran Arjen Robben has confirmed on Saturday that he was going back on his decision to retire after signing a deal with Eredivisie side FC Groningen, where the 36-year-old started his professional career. 

Robben announced his retirement last summer after a 10-year stint at Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, citing the toll injuries had taken on him. He also played at Chelsea and Real Madrid, featured in the 2010 World Cup final and made a total of 110 Champions League appearances. 

During his trophy-laden career, the flying Dutchman won eight Bundesliga titles, five German cups, two Premier League trophies, one FA Cup, one La Liga title, two Dutch cups and one Eredivisie title.  

In an open letter to football fans, however, Robben declared that his career is not over yet. 

"Dear football fans and Groningen fans, I was 12 years old when I started playing in Groningen's youth academy. I made my home debut against Feyenoord when I was 16. After two years, I made a transfer to PSV. After a wonderful adventure of 18 years, we're coming home back to Groningen," he said. 

"We're coming home during this difficult time of crisis, one that also hits FC Groningen. It's great to see how everyone is supporting the club, I've supported the club as well and it made me think about what else I could do for our club." 

"These past few weeks, I've had many conversations with club staff and maybe more than anything I have listened to our supporters: 'Arjen, follow your heart'. A comeback, as a Groningen player – I started to play with this idea, and now I've made it my mission!" 

Robben added: "I want to make my comeback as a football player, a player of Groningen. At this time, I am not sure if it will happen. What I am sure of, is that my drive and motivation will be at 100 percent."  

Groningen revealed on social media that Robben has been back in training for the past few weeks in order to be ready for the next season as the current Eredivisie campaign was scrapped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"It will be a tough physical challenge but I'm going for it! I am going to work hard and when everything feels right I will join the team for the first training session of the new season," Robben said. 

"I hope to see everyone as soon as possible. Because my dream is to play in a Groningen jersey. We're not there yet, but one can dream. I hope to see you soon."