End of an era: Edin Dzeko announces international retirement
Bosnia and Herzegovina legend Edin Dzeko has confirmed he will retire from international duty following the UEFA Nations League match against Sweden on October 2.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 / Author: Fudbal BiH
Legendary striker Edin Dzeko has announced his retirement from international football, bringing a close to an illustrious chapter for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 40-year-old, currently playing for Schalke, will make his final appearance for the national team during their UEFA Nations League clash against Sweden on October 2.
Dzeko debuted for his nation in 2007 against Turkey. Over nearly two decades, he has become a national icon, retiring as both the country's most-capped player and its all-time leading goalscorer, with 73 goals in 151 appearances.
I just hope you will be there that night against Sweden, so we can share one more emotion. That is how I want to experience my final night representing my country: with all of you by my side. Edin Dzeko
The pinnacle of his international career remains the qualification for the 2014 World Cup, the first major tournament appearance for the country as an independent nation. Dzeko has often cited the joy of the fans during that period as the most rewarding aspect of his time with the national side.
Following his final international match, Dzeko will shift his full attention back to his club responsibilities with Schalke. Fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to honor the captain for his historic contributions to the sport in Bosnia.