A swansong to football!
The thrilling Euro 2024 culminated with Luis de la Fuente’s Spain being crowned as the well-deserved champions after an electrifying final. Hosted in Germany this summer, the tournament captivated football fans worldwide with its high-octane action, underdog stories, and unforgettable moments. Featuring both established icons and emerging talents, it also served as a stage for several legendary players to announce their retirements from international football after long and distinguished careers. Here are the top five players who retired from international football after Euro 2024:
Unlike others on the list, Jesus Navas might not be a big name, but his achievements with Spain make him the best of the lot. After Spain's Euro 2024 triumph, Navas retired from international football at 38. Despite making just three appearances in his last tournament, he showed his class whenever called upon by coach Luis de la Fuente. Since his debut in 2009, Navas has earned 56 caps, scored five goals, and participated in one World Cup (2010) and two European Championships (2012 and 2024). He won it all with Spain: the 2010 World Cup, the 2012 and 2024 European Championships, and the 2023 Nations League.
Swiss playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri retired from international football following Switzerland's quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024, where they lost 1-1 (5-3) on penalties to England. The 32-year-old made just two appearances in his last tournament, scoring a stunning goal against Scotland in the group stages. Since his 2010 debut, Shaqiri has earned 125 caps and scored 32 goals, becoming Switzerland's second-most-capped player and fourth-highest scorer. He played in four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022) and three European Championships (2016, 2021, 2024), known for his long-range strikes, creating magic from nothing, and impressive hat-tricks.
German forward Thomas Muller retired from international football after Germany's quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024, losing 2-1 to eventual champions Spain. The 34-year-old was primarily used as a substitute, making two appearances off the bench and recording an assist. Since his debut in 2010, Muller has enjoyed an incredible career, scoring 45 goals in 131 caps, becoming Germany's third-most-capped player. He played in four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022) and four European Championships (2012, 2016, 2021, 2024). Muller won the 2014 World Cup, finishing as the joint top scorer with five goals and three assists in an outstanding campaign.
French forward Olivier Giroud retired from international football after France’s semifinal exit at Euro 2024, losing 2-1 to eventual champions Spain. The 37-year-old striker was mostly a substitute in his final competition, making four appearances off the bench without any goal contributions. Since his debut in 2011, Giroud has enjoyed an illustrious career, scoring 57 goals in 137 caps to become France’s all-time top scorer. He won the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League. Giroud participated in three World Cups (2014, 2018, and 2022) and four European Championships (2012, 2016, 2021, and 2024), consistently proving his value on the big stage.
German midfield maestro Toni Kroos retired from football after Germany’s quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024. The 34-year-old played in all five of Germany’s matches during his final tournament, playing a key role in their quarterfinal run. Since debuting in 2010, Kroos has enjoyed a stellar career, scoring 17 goals in 114 caps, making him the ninth-most-capped player for Germany. He participated in three World Cups (2010, 2014, and 2018) and four European Championships (2012, 2016, 2021, and 2024), and was part of the 2014 World Cup-winning squad. Known for his exceptional vision and passing, Kroos remains an all-time icon of the sport.
Every one of these greats has contributed their fair share to football, and their legacy will speak through the game!
