Edinson Cavani Announces Retirement From Uruguay National Team Before Copa América

Uruguay striker, Edinson Cavani, has confirmed that he will no longer play for Uruguay and will not be participating in this year’s Copa América in the United States.

Edinson Cavani netted 58 goals in 136 matches for Uruguay and was a member of the squad that won the 2011 Copa America championship. His number of goals for Uruguay only trails behind his longtime companion Luis Suárez, who has 68 goals.

However, he has not featured for Uruguay since they exited the 2022 World Cup in the group stage.

“My beloved Celeste, I just want to thank you for every lesson you gave me under your process,” Cavani wrote on social media. “I won’t take long. Today my words are few but profound. Thanks to every single person who was a part of this road over the years. I was and always will be blessed to have worn this jersey representing what I love most in this world, my country.

“They were without doubt so many wonderful years. I have a thousand things to say, tell, and remember, but I want to dedicate today to this new stage of my career and give everything I’ve got to where I’m supposed to be now.”

“I have decided to step aside but with my heart still beating, as it was when it was my turn to take to the pitch wearing this beautiful jersey. Sending a strong embrace to all of my fans.” He stated.

Currently playing for Boca Juniors, Cavani enjoyed a lengthy career in Europe, with his most notable stint at Paris Saint-Germain where he netted 200 goals. He held the title of the club’s all-time leading goal scorer until being surpassed by Kylian Mbappé last year.

Cavani previously played for Palermo and Napoli in Italy before brief stints with Manchester United and Valencia. He returned to South America last year, signing with the renowned Argentine club Boca Juniors.

Uruguay has been placed in a group alongside the U.S., Bolivia, and Panama in the upcoming Copa America tournament, commencing on June 20th.