Luis Suarez was visibly emotional as he made a significant announcement regarding his career overnight.
The former Liverpool striker confirmed during a press conference that, following Uruguay’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Paraguay this coming Friday, he will retire from international football. The 37-year-old is his country’s all-time leading scorer with 69 goals from 142 caps, having made his debut in February 2007.
A heartbroken ‘El Pistolero’ told reporters (translated from Spanish): “On Friday…it’s hard for me, it’s even hard for me to say it – it will be my last match with my country’s national team. It’s something I’ve been thinking about; I’ve been analysing it. It’s the right time.”
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There’s no denying that Suarez had his share of controversial moments throughout his club and international career, but even his fiercest detractors would have to admit that he’s been a phenomenal footballer and was one of the world’s best in his prime.
It was Liverpool’s good fortune that his peak years were spent at Anfield, and he was a particular joy to watch during that 31-goal season in 2013/14, when he conjured some truly spellbinding finishes.
He’s earned the right to bow out of Uruguay duty on his own terms, and Friday’s match against Paraguay will be a hugely emotional occasion for one of the country’s greatest-ever players.
You can view Suarez’s announcement below, via @SkySportsNews on X:
"It's even hard for me to say it" 😢
Luis Suarez delivers an emotional press conference in which he announced his retirement from international football at the age of 37 ❌ pic.twitter.com/b0CNjAATJN
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 3, 2024