Sergio Ramos Announces International Retirement

Sergio Ramos has announced his retirement from international football after a decorated Spain career.

What happened?

Ramos made his debut for La Roja in 2005 and went on to make 180 appearances for his national side. He played a vital role as Spain won three major tournaments in a row, lifting the European Championship trophy in 2008 and 2012. Spain also became world champion in South Africa in 2010.

Why it matters for Sergio Ramos

Ramos, who will turn 37 next month, last played for Spain in March 2021 and was not part of Luis Enrique's squad for Euro 2020. He was also not included in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Spain were beaten on penalties by Morocco in the round of 16. Luis Enrique was sacked after that exit, with his replacement Luis de la Fuente saying the door was not closed on Ramos potentially making a return. But Ramos has decided to call it quits due to significant problems with injuries over recent seasons.

What comes next?

Ramos ends his international career with 23 goals, making him ninth on the nation's all-time goalscoring charts despite being a defender. He will continue to play for Paris Saint-Germain, his current club. Ramos's retirement brings an end to a glittering international career. He won the European Championship twice and the World Cup once. Ramos is Spain's most-capped player with 180 appearances. His last appearance for Spain was on March 31, 2021. Ramos scored his 23 goals in 180 games for Spain, with his first goal coming in 2008.