Uruguayan football legend Luis Suarez has announced his retirement from international football.
The news brings to an end a remarkable 16-year career with his national team.
The former Liverpool and Barcelona striker confirmed the news in an emotional press conference on Monday, just days before Uruguay’s World Cup qualifier against Paraguay in Montevideo.
Suarez, 37, retires as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer with 69 goals in 142 appearances.
Since his debut in 2007, he has been a vital figure in Uruguayan football, leading the team to Copa America glory in 2011 and becoming one of the nation’s most celebrated players.
Fighting back tears, Suarez expressed his peace with the decision, stating, “I leave with the peace of mind that I gave everything for the national team until Friday, I have no regrets.
“There is no better pride than knowing when the right moment to retire is, and I am confident that I am stepping aside because I want to, not because of injuries or being left out.”
Suarez’s international career has been marked by both brilliance and controversy.
He was famously involved in a handball incident that helped Uruguay reach the semifinals of the 2010 World Cup.
He is also popular for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini. The incident which happened in 2014, saw him receive a four-month ban.
#AskNigerians @AskNigerians
