Croatia’s FIFA World Cup 2018 Hero Mario Mandzukic Retires From International Football; Posts an Emotional Message on Social Media
Croatia and Juventus’ Mario Mandzukic who was in the news for his performance in the final match against France during the 2018 FIFA World Cup has announced his retirement from international football.
Croatia and Juventus’ Mario Mandzukic who was in the news for his performance in the final match against France during the 2018 FIFA World Cup has announced his retirement from international football. Mandzukic scored on both the ends. The first one was the own goal that gave the lead to France and the other was during the 69th minute of the game. He took to social media and put out an emotional post announcing his retirement,
He wrote in his post, "The World Cup silver has given me new energy, but it has also made this incredibly difficult decision a bit easier. We have made our dreams come true, achieved a historic success, and experienced an unbelievable fan support. That month, including the welcome in Zagreb, Slavonski Brod, and the entire Croatia, will remain the most important memory of my career."
The forward added, "This has been the most beautiful national team journey, and my favourite return to my homeland. I am more than happy, fulfilled, and extremely proud of this silver, that has been forged through years, through pain, effort, work, disappointment, and difficult moments. There is no ideal moment to retire. If possible, we would all play for Croatia until we die, since there is no prouder feeling, but I feel this moment has come for me - now."
Out of 89 appearances for Croatia, Mandzukic scored 33 goals. He made his debut in 2007 and has emerged as the second highest goal scorer in the history of Croatia.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2018 11:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).