Former Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani announced his retirement from international football last week, after serving Uruguay on the international stage since 2006.
As he is often referred to, El Matador spent a year with Uruguay’s U21s in 2006 before he broke onto the international stage as a senior professional.
Cavani moved to Europe in 2007 when he signed for Palermo from Uruguayan outfit Danubio. He made a name for himself there before fellow Serie A side Napoli came knocking. In a matter of two years in Naples, the goalscorer reached legendary status – and he would repeat that feat after joining Paris Saint-Germain.
The 37-year-old also spent two years at Manchester United, scoring 12 goals in 41 appearances. There was an acceptance that Cavani was past his best, though he gave his all in that first season. I wouldn’t say the same about the following season because he was rarely available.
Last week’s decision brings Cavani’s international career to an end, so he can focus on playing for Boca Juniors with Sergio Romero and Marcos Rojo instead of representing his country at the upcoming Copa America.
However, it’s not known if manager Marcelo Bielsa was going to select the veteran. Cavani may be looking to get his announcement in first to make his exit in a more dignified manner.
United winger and Uruguay international Facundo Pellistri has expressed his sadness at Cavani’s decision.
Pellistri told ESPN: “On a personal level it makes me sad. He is one of Uruguay’s greatest players, and for me he is someone with whom I have not only shared moments in the National Team, but also in Manchester United, he is a great friend.
“For Uruguay he is a loss great, but at the same time we are very happy with everything he did for the National Team. He will have his reasons for making that decision, but I stay with all the moments we shared together.
“I spoke with him about the challenges that lie ahead. He wished us a lot of luck and I thanked him for all the moments we experienced.”
Edinson Cavani – Uruguay legend
The Boca Juniors star will go down as one of the best players produced by Uruguay.
Cavani made his senior international debut in 2008, featuring in a side that included former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan, and he went on to score 58 goals in 136 matches.
After playing in four World Cups, Cavani’s best run with Uruguay saw them reach the semi-finals in 2010.
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