Sergio Busquets has announced his decision to retire from Spain’s national team.
The 34-year-old was a key part of the Spain side which won the World Cup in 2010, as well as the European Championship in 2012.
Busquets ends his international career with 143 caps for Spain – the third-highest behind Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos.
The Barcelona midfielder was part of Spain’s squad at the World Cup in Qatar and missed a penalty in the shootout defeat to Morocco in the last 16.
‘I would like to announce that after almost 15 years and 143 matches, the time has come to say goodbye to the national team,’ Busquets wrote on Instagram.
‘I would like to thank all the people who have accompanied me on this long journey. From Vicente del Bosque who gave me the opportunity to start, to Luis Enrique for making me enjoy until the last second. I also thank Julen Lopetegui, Fernando Hierro and Robert Moreno for their trust, as well as all their staff.
‘And of course to each and every one of my teammates, with whom I have struggled to try to take the team where it deserved, with more or less success but always giving everything and with the greatest of pride.
‘I do not want to forget any member of the expedition, who, being in the background, have been just as important (physios, doctors, kit men, delegates, nutritionists, staff, press, security, travel, etc…) and all the people and workers who have crossed my path and have made it so special.
Also to presidents, managers, sports directors, and to those who, in one way or another, have been part of the federation.
‘To all the followers, for the daily support received and especially when things did not turn out as we expected. That is when you are most needed and most united you have to be. To all of you, thank you!
‘And of course, most importantly, my family. For supporting me at all times and in all my decisions and sharing this path while being away for many days and making me always feel close so that I could give my best.
‘It has been an honour to represent my country and take it to the top, to be a world and European champion, to be captain and to play so many games, with greater or lesser success but always giving everything and contributing my grain of sand so that everything was the right way as possible and that everyone felt how important they are, helping everyone and fighting for the same goal, with unique, unforgettable and historical experiences.’
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