Mario Mandzukic and goalkeeper Danijel Subasic have revealed they will be retiring from the international scene of football. This was announced nearly a month after they played in FIFA World Cup 2018.
According to FIFA, Mandzukic and Subasic are key members of Croatia side and they both made history during Russia 2018. They have been awarded silver, which is their best victory on FIFA World Cup to date. Mandzukic was able to net three goals for the side of Zlatco Dalic in Russia.
Aside from the three netted goals, he also had a consolation goal during final and an extra-time winner against England in the semi-finals. Subasic, on the other hand, has risen to the fore after reportedly saving three penalties against Denmark. This was on their Round 16 shootout, right before one more in the quarterfinals against Russia.
The Juventus star expressed his emotions as he posted a message in social media platforms. He said, "World Cup silver has given me new energy, but it has also made this incredibly difficult decision a bit easier. We have made our dreams come true, achieved a historic success, and experienced an unbelievable fan support."
Mandzukic emphasized how his time in Croatia will remain the most important memory of his career. Apart from that, he described it as the most beautiful National Team journey for him. The silver award they've received before his final exit gives him extreme joy. He is proud, pointing out that it is the proof of hard work for years, efforts, and overcoming the difficult moments.
Subasic felt the same way, saying the welcome home experience in Zagreb has been the most emotional moment of their career. It can be recalled that they've stayed in Russia for over a month, and the 33-year-old expressed this in an open letter.
Mandzukic, moreover, explained that there is no specific time for retirement. He believes that they would all play for Croatia if possible. But unfortunately, he felt like the end of his time has come. Here are some details about his career:
1. His senior international debut started in 2007.
2. He played to represent his country in two world cups: Brazil 2014 and Russia 2018.
3. Croatia's joint second top goal scorer after Davor Suker.
Prior to Mandzukic and Subasic's retirement, Vice-captain Vedran Corluka has decided to end his time with the National team as well.
