Former Croatia international Mario Mandzukic has announced his retirement from all forms of football.
He made it official with an emotional post on Instagram, where he wrote: “Dear little Mario, While you put on these boots for the first time, you can't even imagine what you will get to experience in football. You'll score goals at the biggest stages and you'll win the biggest trophies with the biggest clubs. Proudly representing your nation, you will help write the history of Croatian sports.
“You'll succeed because you'll have good people around you – teammates, coaches, fans, and family, agent and friends who will always be there for you. You'll be forever grateful to all of them!
“Above all, you'll succeed because you'll always give your best. At the end, that's what you'll be most proud of. You'll sacrifice a lot, but you'll know it was worth it because of all the amazing moments.
“You'll recognize the moment to retire, to put these boots in a cabinet and you'll have no regrets. Football will always be a part of your life, but you'll look forward to a new chapter. Enjoy! Your big Mario.
“P.S. If you happen to play vs England in the World Cup, just be ready around 109th minute.”
Mandzukic enjoyed a decorated career in which he played for the likes of Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Atletico Madrid.
He made 582 appearances at the club level throughout his career, scoring over 200 goals. He won multiple league titles with Bayern and Juventus, while also winning the Champions League with the German side in 2013.
At the International level, Mandzukic made 89 appearances for Croatia and scored 33 goals – including the memorable one against England in the 2018 FIFA World cup semi-finals to help his side move into the finals.
