Croatia defender Dejan Lovren has announced his retirement from international football after 14 years of offering his service to his country.
The 33-year-old, who is in his second spell at Lyon, won 78 caps and started in the 2018 World Cup final when Croatia lost 4-2 to France in Moscow.
Lovren disclosed his decision via social media. He made his debut for his country in 2009 and has represented them at three World Cups and the European Championship.
His announcement read: “Dear teammates, dear Croatia fans, I want to address you today with some somber news, but believe me, the decision that I am about to announce is one that I made with an open heart and after a lot of consideration.
“This announcement doesn’t come easily to me, and while I am writing this letter, I am doing my best not to cry, but I hope that by now you have come to know me as a man with heart and a man that does not hide his emotions.
“The time has come for me to say my final goodbye to the Croatian national team, though I will forever remain a huge supporter of the Vatreni and will follow the team in each coming match.”
Lovren thanked all of his head coaches at Croatia, former and current teammates at the national team, as well as Croatia staff for their support and efforts.
Lovren helped Liverpool win a UEFA Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, and an English Premier League title.
He joined Olympique Lyon from Russia’s Zenit in January and has a contract with the French club until 2025.
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