International Retirements

On a day of major announcements, arguably two the best players in their position have decided to hang up their international boots. Samuel Eto’o and Xabi Alonso have announced that they’d no longer be donning their country colours on the international football stage.

Samuel Eto’o who just signed a two year contract with Everton, scored 56 goals in 118 appearances after making his debut as a 15-year-old in 1997. Eto’o was the youngest player in the 1998 world cup, from then he went on to play three more world cups for his country.

Eto’o Message:

"I wish to inform you that I hereby put a definitive end to my international career," Eto'o said in a statement on his Facebook page.

"On this occasion, I wish to thank all Africans in particular and all my fans around the world for their love and unconditional support. Find here the expression of my deep gratitude."

Xabi Alonso:

The one time World cup winner and two time Euro cup champion, has decided to hang up his boots after representing Spain for 11 long years. Xabi retires with 114 caps to his name since his first appearance in 2003. The midfielder was the part of Spain’s most successful generation of footballers. The 32 year old retires, after international team mate Xavi decided to end his career to concentrate on club football and giving youngster’s a chance to step in and take the country ahead.

Xabi’s open letter to the FA:

Alonso said: 'The hardest thing is to know when to say goodbye, but after it giving it a lot of thought, I believe the time has come.'

'I have had a glorious time with Spain that started more than 11 years ago, including me forming part of an historic generation which realised the dream of millions of fans, achieving the unique feat of winning the World Cup and two European Championships in four years.

He paid tribute to his various international coaches, including Inaki Saez, 'the unforgettable' Luis Aragones and Vicente del Bosque.

'[They] are people who have helped me improve in the right way both professionally and personally,' he said.

'I can't count all the team-mates with whom I've worn this shirt, but I want to thank each and every one for all they have taught me during this unforgettable stage of my life.'

And he also thanked the three clubs he has served adding: 'Real Sociedad, Liverpool and Real Madrid opened the doors to international football to me and they always helped and supported me.'

'Finally, I want to convey my sincere thanks to the fans,' he added.

'We shared the same dreams and enjoyed the glory together. I have experienced many unforgettable moments and you guys have been the protagonists.

'I want to wish luck to everybody who continues to fight for this shirt, holding the absolute conviction that we will experience glory once again.'