Melbourne Victory have a giant hole to fill in the heart of their A-League defence after Matthieu Delpierre announced his retirement.

The 35-year-old had previously decided to hang up the boots, before announcing he was reconsidering his decision.

On Tuesday, the club confirmed the end of a 17-season career that spanned French, German, Dutch and Australian football, including titles with Victory and Stuttgart.

The towering Frenchman is a favourite to claim a Victory Medal for his fine performances this season.