Nemanja Matic announces his retirement from international football

Nemanja Matic has retired from international football at the age of 32.

The Serbian made his international debut in 2008, earned 48 caps for his country and scored two goals in that stretch.

The decision would be a bonus for the Red Devils as it will allow Matic rest during the international breaks in what will be a bustling season domestically. 

Vladimir Matijasevic, the director of the Serbia Football Association, confirmed Nemanja’s decision on Friday afternoon. 

“Other than saying it was time for younger players to take over, Matic did not state any other specific reasons for quitting,” said Matijasevic.

“We respect his decision. He is 32 years old and he’s had an exerting club season. European club football is demanding and hence we are aware that we’ll have to inject fresh blood into the national team.

“When I arrived at the FSS, I spoke to Mitrovic, Milivojevic and Matic. Nemanja said then that he would return, but he had some decisions of his own to make that have nothing to do with us.

“We talked a few days ago, I called him on the phone, we also agreed to have coffee, if our time and obligations allow it. It was an extremely pleasant and fair conversation. He is determined to put an end to his national team career.

“The head coach also spoke to him, about which you will surely hear more at a press conference on Monday. That is Nemanja’s decision that we must respect.”

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