Missing from the frame

EPL
Paul Scholes: The midfield maestro came out of retirement once in 2011-12 and did his bit to help United regain the league title from Manchester City. This time he looks to have retired for good and his side is still struggling to find a replacement.
Alex Ferguson: One of the most successful managers in the history of the game decided to call it a day.He walked into the sunset on a high with Manchester United back on their perch after leading them to their 20th league title. He is now on the board of the club while fellow Scot David Moyes is now in the hot seat.
Jamie Carragher: Liverpool's 'working class hero' decided to hang up his boots at the end of last season. While not the most talented, he made up for it with a good footballing brain and has already signed up as a football pundit and columnist.
Michael Owen: The speedy striker and former Ballon d'Or winner who turned out for giants like Liverpool, Real Madrid and Manchester United was tipped for greatness right from his teens but injuries made it a case of what could have been. He retired after an uneventful stint at Stoke City last season.
La Liga
Tito Vilanova: Vilanova's time as Barcelona manager was tragically cut short by cancer. He took a mid-season break and made a successful return as his team romped to the title. But a relapse meant it was time to hand over the reins to Gerardo Martino.
Ruud van Nistelrooy: The former Manchester United and Real Madrid hitman announced his retirement at the end of last season. He was part of the Malaga side that made it to the quarterfinals of the Champions League.
David Albelda: The 35-year-old Valencia skipper called time on a career that included two league titles and a UEFA Cup. He was also part of the Valencia side that lost two Champions League finals.