Edinson Cavani has decided to retire from international football, which put a dent in Uruguay’s lineup for the upcoming Copa America 2024.
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CAVANI RETIRES, PUTS DENT IN URUGUAY’S COPA AMERICA PREPARATIONS
Cavani has announced his decision to call it quits.
Furthermore, this means the star striker will not play for Uruguay in the Copa America 2024.
Additionally, the 37-year-old Boca Juniors striker was part of the Uruguay squad that won the 2011 Copa America title.
“I was and always will be blessed to have worn this jersey representing what I love most in this world, my country,” Cavani said.
“Thanks to every single person who was a part of this road over the years,” he added.
CAVANI LEAVES URUGUAY LEGACY OF SECOND-LARGEST NUMBER OF GOALS
Cavani tallied 58 goals in 136 appearances for Uruguay, leaving a lasting legacy for the South American country.
Meanwhile, his goal total tally is second only to the 68 goals compiled by teammate Luis Suarez.
However, the striker has not played for Uruguay since the 2022 World Cup, where the team exited in the group stage.
Cavani had a checkered career in Europe, particularly in Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
He scored 200 goals for PSG to emerge as the club’s all-time top scorer.
However, Cavani’s total was eclipsed by Kylian Mbappe last year.
FEDERICO VALVERDE TO LEAD URUGUAY SQUAD SANS CAVANI
Federico Valverde is expected to provide more of a leadership role for Uruguay with Suarez already retired.
The 25-year-old Real Madrid winger is expected to lead Uruguay’s midfielders’ line along with Tottenham standout Rodrigo Bentancur.
Matias Vecino (Lazio), Nahitan Nandez (Cagliari), and Manuel Ugarte (PSG) were also included at midfield.
Flamengo’s Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Nicolas dela Cruz are also battling for spots in the lineup.
Matias Vina (Flamengo) and Ronald Agaujo of Barcelona lead the list of defenders.
They were joined by Mathias Olivera (Napoli), Guillermo Varela (Flamengo), and Sebastian Caceres (America).
