Spain legend Sergio Busquets announces retirement from international football after World Cup exit

Jonathan Gorrie16 December 2022

Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets has announced his retirement from international football.

The 34-year-old, who also won the 2012 European Championship, is ending his Spain career after 143 appearances, the Spanish national team said Friday. Only Sergio Ramos (180) and Iker Casillas (167) played more games for Spain.

It marks the end of an era for Spain, as the Barcelona defensive midfielder was the only remaining member of the World Cup-winning team from South Africa who was still playing for his country.

The midfielder was a key part of the successes of Barcelona and Spain when he lined up for both club and country beside Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández.

Spanish soccer federation president Luis Rubiales also praised Busquets for being a "quiet, serene leader who was admired by everyone."

In addition to his titles with Spain, he has helped Barcelona win three Champions League titles and several other trophies.

Busquets’ contract with Barcelona expires at the end of this season. He has been linked with a possible move to Major League Soccer in the U.S.

Additional reporting from Reuters

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