One of the last Spanish players to remain active with the national team to have won the World Cup in 2010 has decided to put an end to his international career, as Sergio Busquets has officially revealed his intention to stop defending La Roja.
The midfielder, who was a key part of Spain's 2010 FIFA World Cup winning campaign, played his final World Cup match against Morocco, where he missed a penalty kick that ended Spain's run in the competition. The player will retire from international football with 143 caps for La Roja and 2 goals.
The player took it to social media to reveal his decision, posting a large farewell to all those involved in his career with the national team, including coaches such as Luis Enrique, Vicente del Bosque, and Julen Lopetegui.
The player also included a large caption that we include as a translation here.
"Hey everyone! I would like to announce that, after almost 15 years and 143 games, the time has come to bid farewell to the national team.
I'd like to thank all those that have joined me in this journey. From Vicente del Bosque, who gave me my first chance, to Luis Enrique, who made me enjoy until the last minute. I would also like to thank the trust Julen Lopetegui, Fernando Hierro, and Robert Moreno had in me, as well as to all their staff members.
I can't leave out each and everyone of my teammates, who alwats fought with me to try and take the team where it deserved, with a bit of success but always giving it all with pride as our flag.
Also, I'd like to mention all those that worked behind the scenes that were as relevant as us on the pitch (physios, doctors, delegates, press staff, nutritionists, security, travel agents, etc), and those who crossed paths with me and made it so special. Big thanks to all the presidents, sports directors, and those who were related to the Federation in one way or the other.
Last, but not least, to my family. For being there for me in every moment and in all my decisions, for sharing this path even if they were far away, and making themselves feel close to me so I can give my all.
It was an honor to represent my country and to take it to the highest level, to be a World Champion and a European champion. To be its captain and to play many games, some successful and some not as much, but always giving everything and chipping in so everything went on as good as possible. Everyone beside me was important, helping me to fight for a same goal, while also giving me unique, unforgettable and historic experiences."
The post quickly earned over 400,000 likes on Instagram, while also getting comments by some of Busquets' colleagues. Players such as David De Gea, Ezequiel Lavezzi, Aymeric Laporte, Sergi Roberto, Juan Mata, Xabi Alonso, Álvaro Morata, Ferrán Torres, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and even Antonela Roccuzzo (Messi's wife), paid their respects to Busquets' career in the comments' section of the post.
