Sergio Busquets, the captain of Barcelona, has declared his retirement from the Spanish national football team.
In Spain's loss to the Atlas Lions of Morocco in a penalty shootout, the 34-year-old player earned his 143rd cap.
Despite his lack of speed, the midfield controller is respected for his deep lying playmaking, positional sense, defensive qualities, tackling, tactical acumen, and ability to read the game.
Vincente Del Bosque, the manager of Spain at the time, once said of him, "Watch Busquets, and you will see the whole game. If you watch the whole game, you won't see Busquets."
The time has come to say farewell to the national team, I would like to announce after nearly 15 years and 143 games, he wrote on Instagram.
"I want to thank everyone who has been with me on this long journey. Vicente del Bosque gave me the chance to begin, and Luis Enrique made sure I enjoyed every last second. I also want to express my gratitude to Robert Moreno, Fernando Hierro, and Julen Lopetegui for their support.
And of course, to each and every one of my teammates, with whom I have battled to try to lead the team to where it deserved, with varying degrees of success but always giving everything and with the utmost pride.
"I don't want to overlook any team members who were less visible but equally crucial (physios, physicians, kit men, nutritionists, staff, press, security, travel, etc.), as well as all the individuals and workers that crossed my path and contributed to the trip's uniqueness. Additionally, to presidents, managers, sports directors, and anyone else who has in some way been associated with the federation.
"To all the followers, thank you for your everyday support, even during times when events did not go as planned. You must be there because it is when you are most needed and most unified. Thank you to each of you.
"Of sure, my family is very important. For always being there for me, encouraging me in all of my choices, walking beside me on this journey while I was gone for several days, and making me feel near at all times so I could give my all.
"It has been an honor to represent my country and lead it to the top, to win a world and European championship, to serve as captain, and to play in so many games, with varying degrees of success, but always giving it my all and adding my small piece to make sure that everything went as well as it could and that everyone felt important, assisting one another in the pursuit of a common goal with special, unforgettable, and historical experiences.
I still get shivers just thinking about it. I will really miss this (seeing the squad list, taking the plane, greeting my teammates, enjoying the training sessions, the endless pocha games, going out to play, but not before shouting together, listening to the national anthem, hugging and feeling the affection of an entire country).
"Finally, I wish the new coach Luis de la Fuente and my teammates the best of luck. I will now add my support. I will delight in and unwaveringly support our team.
Source: https://ojbsport.com/2022/12/16/sergio-busquets-confirms-retirement-from-international-football/
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