Edin Dzeko, the veteran forward currently playing for Schalke, has announced his retirement from the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. The 40-year-old made the announcement on his Instagram account, stating that the upcoming UEFA Nations League match against Sweden on October 2 will mark his last appearance for his country.
In his heartfelt message, Dzeko expressed the emotional weight of this decision, reflecting on his long and storied international career. He stated, "Sometimes I found myself wondering when this moment would come... But I never imagined how emotional I would feel writing these words." His pride in representing Bosnia and Herzegovina was evident as he added, "Nothing in my career has ever compared to the pride I have felt every single time I wore that shirt. Nothing."
Dzeko holds the record for the most appearances for the national team, having played 151 matches and scored 73 goals since making his debut in 2007 during the Euro qualifiers against Turkey. His contributions have been significant, and he has been a key figure in the national squad, participating in major tournaments including the FIFA World Cup held earlier this year in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Reflecting on his journey, Dzeko noted, "It was my childhood dream, a dream I carried with me on each of the 151 occasions I had the honour of representing my country on a football pitch." His commitment to the national team has been unwavering, and he emphasized that reaching the age of 40 while still competing at this level is a testament to his dedication. He remarked, "If I have made it to the age of 40 with the national team, it is because I truly gave everything I had. Every time. Everything."
While Dzeko steps away from international play, he remains an active player at the club level with Schalke, where he has a contract that runs until June 2027. His experience and leadership will continue to be vital for his club as they navigate their season.
Before Dzeko's farewell match against Sweden, Bosnia and Herzegovina will face Poland on September 25 and Romania on September 28 in the Nations League. These matches will be crucial for the team as they aim to secure their position in the tournament.
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