Spain's Sergio Busquets Retires From International Football After 2022 FIFA World Cup Exit

Sergio Busquets played the 2022 World Cup as captain of Spain, who were eliminated from the tournament following a missed penalty against Morocco in the round of 16.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Spain's defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets, on Friday, announced retirement from international football after his team’s exit in 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The 34-year-old Barcelona legend is only the seventh footballer from Spain to participate in four FIFA World Cups. Sergio Busquets scored two goals for Spain in 143 games, throughout his national career. He was a key player of Vicente Del Bosque-led national team that won 2010 World Cup and 2012 European Championship.

“I would like to announce that after almost 15 years and 143 matches, the moment has arrived to bid farewell to the national team,” wrote Busquets on his social media platforms.

“At 34 years old, Busquets puts an end to this great international career. From the Royal Spanish Football Federation, eternal gratitude for this brilliant path. Thanks Sergio. Thank you Captain,” the statement from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) read.

Busquets played the 2022 World Cup as captain of Spain, who were eliminated from the tournament following a missed penalty against Morocco in the round of 16.

“Sergio Busquets is an iconic figure in Spanish football, an exemplary athlete, an irreproachable professional and an indisputable leader”, said Luis Rubiales, the president of the RFEF.

“I have known Sergio and his family since he was 11 years old when I shared a dressing room with his father at Lleida. I am united by a great friendship with his parents and sometimes my heart can make my words less objective: I don’t mean it either, Sergio is a player who will transcend generations for his immense legacy,” he added.

Spain - Complete squad for 2022 FIFA World Cup

Goalkeepers: Unai Simon, Robert Sanchez, David Raya.

Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Hugo Guillamon, Pau Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba, Jose Gaya.

Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Rodri, Gavi, Carlos Soler, Marcos Llorente, Pedri, Koke.

Forwards: Ferran Torres, Nico Williams, Yeremi Pino, Alvaro Morata, Marco Asensio, Pablo Sarabia, Dani Olmo, Ansu Fati.