Uruguay’s Edinson Cavani announces international retirement

Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 37.

The Boca Juniors forward won 136 caps and scored 58 goals for his country across an international career spanning 14 years.

Cavani’s decision to retire from international football means he will not feature at this summer’s Copa America, having not played for Uruguay since the 2022 World Cup.

Cavani wrote on Instagram: “Today my words are few but profound. Thanks to every single person who was a part of this road over the years.

I was and always will be blessed to have worn this jersey representing what I love most in this world, my country.

“They were without doubt so many wonderful years. I have a thousand things to say, tell and remember, but I want to dedicate today to this new stage of my career and give everything I’ve got to where I’m supposed to be now.

“I have decided so step aside but with my heart still beating, as it was when it was my turn to take to the pitch wearing this beautiful jersey. Sending a strong embrace to all of my fans.”

Cavani is Uruguay’s second all-time leading scorer, with his goal tally of 58 bettered only by Luis Suarez’s 68.

The former Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United striker made his senior international debut against Colombia in 2008 and represented Uruguay at four World Cups.

Cavani was part of the Uruguay side that reached the semi-finals at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and won the 2011 Copa America.

Suarez paid tribute to his international teammate on social media, writing: “When we celebrated our first goal together we were two children who dreamed of taking our country to the top…

Those children were growing up and experiencing unique things defending our beloved team.

“With sadness and joy we always wanted the same objective: for Uruguay to win and the flag to be well represented.

“Your name will always be marked in the history of our football and our country. As a Uruguayan I thank you for everything you did for the national team.”

Cavani’s final appearance for his country was the 2022 World Cup group stage defeat to Ghana as Uruguay exited the competition.

He and Suarez were left out of Marcelo Bielsa’s initial Uruguay squads following his appointment in May 2023, before Suarez earned a recall in November.

Uruguay begin their Copa America campaign against Panama on June 23, and have also been drawn alongside Bolivia and the USMNT.