Former Manchester United midfielder retires from football

Image result for fellaini belgium

Former Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini has announced his retirement from international football.  The former Manchester United star moved away from European football to join Chinese club Shandong Luneng on a big-money deal on February 1. He has now opted to call time on his Belgium career having won 87 caps and scored 18 goals since making his debut way back in 2007.

Image result for Marouane Fellaini and Kevin de bruyne

Fellaini was considered part of Belgian’s golden generation, helping them reach their first World Cup finals since 2002 in 2014 before finishing third in last summer’s tournament in Russia. The 31-year-old posted an emotional message on Instagram announcing the end of his international career.  “After twelve years of representing Belgium at the highest level, I have decided to retire from senior international football,” Fellaini said.

Image result for Marouane Fellaini and Hazard

“It has not been an easy decision for me and not one I take lightly however I feel that the time is right for me to step down and allow the next generation of Belgian players to continue this very successful period in Belgian football history. “It has been an honour to represent my country 87 times and to be a part of two World Cups and a European Championship campaign for Belgium.

Fellaini (right) helped his country finish third in the World Cup last year (Image: Laurence Griffiths)

“I have many amazing memories with the Red Devils from my debut in 2007 to last year’s World Cup in Russia and I am very proud Belgium is currently No 1 in FIFA’s world rankings. “I want to thank all those who have been part of my international career especially my team mates, many of whom will be friends for life and all the coaches I have worked with.  “I would like to also thank all the Belgian fans who have travelled the world to support us. “I wish the manager and the squad every success for the upcoming European Qualifiers.

“Thank you Belgium.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *