One of the most loved footballers in Uruguay, Edinson Cavani, announced his international retirement on Thursday, May 30.
Cavani's announcement has brought an end to his 16-year-long illustrious international career. The veteran striker took to his Instagram account to inform his fans about his decision to retire from international football with immediate effect.
Cavani expressed his gratitude to his fans and everyone who was a part of his international run with Uruguay.
"My dear celestial:
"I just want to thank you for every lesson you made me experience in your process. I don't want to extend. Today there are few words but deep feelings. Thanks to each of the people who were part of this path for so many years."
"I was and will always be blessed to have worn this shirt to represent what I love most in El Murido, my country. They were undoubtedly many precious years, I would have a thousand things to say, tell and remember, but today I want to dedicate myself to this new stage of my career and give everything where I have to be."
"Today I decided to take a step aside, but I will always follow them with a beating heart, like when it was my turn to go out on the field. With this beautiful T-shirt. I send a big hug to all my people. Up the Celeste!" Cavani's heartfelt note read.
Cavani is the second-most capped footballer in the history of Uruguay. He made 136 appearances for La Celeste during his playing career, the second-most appearances after Luis Suárez who has played 138 fixtures.
Cavani is the second-leading goal scorer in Uruguay's history with 58 goals. He is only behind his teammate Suárez who has found the back of the net 68 times in his career.
The veteran striker's shock retirement is a major blow to coach Marcelo Bielsa's plans of helping Uruguay claim the Copa America 2024 title.
Cavani represented Uruguay in four World Cups and was last seen in action for the national side in their 2-0 victory over Ghana in the first round of the 2022 World Cup.
