The Spaniard, despite coming towards the back-end of his career, has shown no signs of slowing down and is still a key member of Carlo Ancelotti’s Bundesliga giants.

Alonso has enjoyed a distinguished career both domestically and at international level – given that he has won the Champions League twice, in addition to the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2008 and 2012 European Championships.

The midfield maestro also completed decorated stints with Liverpool and Real Madrid, and now Bayern Munich where he has two league titles to his name.

WATCH THE MAESTRO IN ACTION:

Here are the other sporting stars who are celebrating:

1953: Brian Little – former Aston Villa player and manager (63).
1984: Peter Siddle – Australia fast bowler (32).
1986: Craig Gardner – West Brom midfielder (30).
1988: Jay Spearing – Bolton midfielder (28).