Uruguay’s veteran striker Edinson Cavani announced his retirement from international football on Thursday (May 30). Cavani, who is currently playing for Boca Juniors, made the big announcement on his official Instagram account. The 37-year-old has been part of some big moments in Uruguay’s footballing history, being a vital member of their winning campaign in the 2011 Copa America. 

In his lengthy Instagram post, Cavani thanked the team for the lessons he learnt over the years and claimed that he was blessed to have worn the national jersey. 

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In an emotional post, Cavani wrote, “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 decide 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 came into the scene with an international debut in 2008. Throughout his career, the striker has been part of some big moments while representing the country. He ended his career as the second-highest goal scorer in Uruguay’s history, with 58 goals. In addition, he signs off as the third most-capped player for Uruguay, with as many as 136 appearances.

Cavani made a name for himself by being a consistent performer in major tournaments, including the Copa America and FIFA World Cup. The veteran played crucial roles in Uruguay’s impressive runs, including their fourth-place finishes in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, in South Africa, and the 2018 FIFA World Cup held in Russia.

Cavani ended as the joint-top scorer in the 2011 Copa America, in Argentina, where Uruguay beat Paraguay 3-0 in the final. His knack for performing in big-ticket tournaments made him extremely popular. Thus, the striker steps aside as one of the most prolific players for Uruguay.

Notably, Cavani stated in his retirement note that he would continue to follow the side and their performances on the field.

The footballer — who also played for clubs such as Napoli, Manchester United, Paris-Saint Germain (PSG), etc. — has retired just three weeks ahead of the 2024 Copa America, which will be held in USA.

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