Daley Blind Announces Retirement from Netherlands Duty
-
Loading... - Clarke Babcock
- 15 Aug 2024
- 51 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
Daley Blind, the Dutch defender, has announced his retirement from international duty for the Netherlands. Blind made his debut for the Netherlands in 2013 and went on to make 108 appearances for his country, scoring three goals. He is fifth on the list of most-capped players for the Netherlands.
Blind was part of the Dutch squad that reached the semi-finals at Euro 2024, although he only made one substitute appearance in the tournament. In a post on social media, Blind expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and announced his decision to focus on his club and family.
"It was an honour to wear the Orange shirt 108 times. For me, that is the highest achievable as a player: representing your country," Blind said. "For 11 years I have done everything I could to keep wearing that beautiful Oranje shirt. It has given me so much, so many beautiful moments. I cherish them."
Blind also acknowledged the emergence of a new, talented generation of Dutch players and stated that he had discussed his decision with the national coach. "A new, talented generation is coming up and after a good conversation with the national coach it is time to fully focus on my club and my family," he said.
Blind thanked the national coaches, staff, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his international career. "Once again, it was a great honour! They were great years. Thank you national coaches, staff, teammates and, of course, the Oranje legion! I will miss it and you. Thanks to everyone."
