Former Ajax, Real Madrid and Inter Milan superstar Wesley Sneijder has announced his international retirement following a chat with new Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman.
The two met in Qatar, where Sneijder now plays for Al Gharafa having transferred from Ligue 1’s Nice earlier this year – a move that the midfielder says he knew would impact his international career.
I feel proud and honoured to have been able to play for my country for 15 years, 9750 minutes, 133 games, 85wins, 31 goals.
— Wesley Sneijder (@sneijder101010) March 4, 2018
Football is my all time passion. Good luck to the next generation. Give 100% always!
Untill we meet again ⚽️🔥🧡🦁 #OnsOranje 🎥NOS pic.twitter.com/CEWoGzs1dl
Sneijder is the Oranje’s record appearances holder, having made 133 appearances for the national team during a 15-year international career.
His high point was the 2010 FIFA World Cup, in which he was the joint-top scorer with five goals as the Dutch reached the final before losing to Spain. He was also named to the team of the tournament.