The Serbian captain, 35-year-old Feyenoord player Dusan Tadic, has announced on social media that he will be retiring from the Serbian national team.
Tadic wrote: “I stand by the views I expressed – I emphasize that I did not intend to insult any of my teammates or any other members of the Serbian team. Therefore, it is necessary for me to clarify certain things that I know caused controversy one last time.”
“Furthermore, the main reason for announcing this is that I have made the decision to bid farewell to the Serbian national team. Whether I can play a role in the future – let professionals, the public, or anyone willing to discuss this issue and consider themselves part of the football world be the judge.”
“I am about to say goodbye to the national team, but I believe that one day I will return. After my playing career ends, I want to stay in football, and if possible, there’s nothing better than helping the country. Alongside my family and friends, whether in the stands or in front of the screen, I will always be a loyal fan of Serbia.”
Previously, after Serbia’s match against England in the European Championship, Tadic expressed dissatisfaction with coach Stojkovic’s tactics, stating: “I’m the best player and should start. If the head coach only wants me to play for 30 minutes, then I’ll play for 30 minutes. I respect the head coach’s decision, but I openly state that I hope to play the full 90 minutes.” This sparked discord between the coach and player.