James Rodriguez retires from Colombian national team after 15 years
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineColombian football star James Rodriguez has announced his retirement from the national team after 15 years of international football and three World Cup appearances.
The 35-year-old captain made the announcement on Tuesday in a social media video, fighting back tears as he reflected on his time with Colombia.
Rodriguez said: “I’m leaving with serenity because I know I gave absolutely everything.”
The former Real Madrid midfielder rose to global prominence at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he inspired Colombia to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
Rodriguez finished the tournament as its top scorer, winning the Golden Boot and establishing himself as a global football star.
Despite a nomadic and largely ineffective club career in recent years, he remained an important figure for Colombia, helping the team reach the Copa America final two years ago.
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However, Rodriguez failed to score at this year’s World Cup and was outshone by his Colombia team-mate Luis Diaz of Bayern Munich.
The midfielder joined Colombian club Atletico Nacional last week, shortly before announcing the end of his international career.
Rodriguez leaves the national team after 15 years and three World Cup campaigns.
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