Daley Blind Announces Retirement from International Football

Daley Blind, the 34-year-old Dutch defender, announced his retirement from international football after earning 108 caps for the Netherlands, making him the fifth-most capped player in the country's history. He made the decision following a conversation with national coach Ronald Koeman, emphasizing his desire to focus on his club career with Girona and his family. Blind expressed pride in representing the Netherlands, describing it as the pinnacle of his career and reflecting on the beautiful moments he experienced while wearing the Oranje shirt. His final international appearance was as a substitute during Euro 2024, where he primarily played a limited role. Throughout his career, Blind participated in four major tournaments, including the 2014 World Cup, where he made significant contributions to the team's success. Blind's decision to retire comes as he acknowledges the emergence of a talented new generation in Dutch football.