Spain legend Sergio Ramos announces international retirement

Experienced centre-back Sergio Ramos has announced that he has retired from Spain duty after 180 appearances for the national team over the space of 18 years.

The 36-year-old has represented La Roja at four World Cups and three European Championships, lifting the 2010 World Cup, in addition to winning the European Championship title in 2008 and 2012.

Ramos's debut for Spain came at the age of 18, and he is the most capped player in the history of the national team, 13 clear of Iker Casillas in second position.

The experienced defender was not selected for the 2022 World Cup under Luis Enrique, though, and he has been told that he does not figure in the plans of new La Roja head coach Luis de la Fuente.

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"The time has come. Time for me to say goodbye to the Spain national team. To La Roja. This morning, I received a call from the current Head Coach who informed me that I am not and will not be part of his plans, regardless of how I perform or what I do in my career," he wrote on Instagram.

"With a heavy heart, it's the end of a road that I hoped would stretch out further and which would end with a better taste in my mouth, on a par with all the success we achieved with La Roja.

"I honestly believe that this journey deserved to end at my own choosing or because my performances were not at a level worthy of our national team.

"Not due to a question of age or other reasons that, although I have not heard them directly, I have certainly felt. Because age in itself is not a virtue or a defect; it's just a number that is not necessarily related to performance or ability. I admire and envy players like [Luka] Modric, [Lionel] Messi and Pepe.

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"They are the essence of tradition, values, meritocracy and justice in football. Unfortunately, it won't be like that for me because football isn't always fair and football is never just football.

"This is something I have to accept, albeit with this sadness I share with you but also with my head held high, and thankful for all these years and for your support.

"I come away with unforgettable memories, all the titles we've fought for and celebrated together and the tremendous pride I feel as the most capped Spanish international of all time. This badge, this shirt and these fans, all of you, have made me happy.

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"I'll continue to support my country with the passion of someone lucky enough to proudly represent it 180 times. My heartfelt thanks to all of you who believed in me."

Ramos's last appearance for Spain came in March 2021, but he remains an important figure for Paris Saint-Germain, featuring on 32 occasions during the 2022-23 campaign.

The defender has played 21 matches in Ligue 1 this season and seven times in the Champions League.

However, there is uncertainty surrounding Ramos's future at club level, as he only has a contract with the French champions until the end of the campaign.