Dutch defender Daley Blind announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday after earning 108 caps for the Netherlands.
In a social media post, he expressed that it was time to shift his focus entirely to his club and family following a positive conversation with the national coach. Wearing the Oranje shirt 108 times was an immense honor for him as a player, as representing his country was the pinnacle achievement.
Throughout 11 years, he dedicated himself to continue donning the magnificent Oranje jersey, which has brought him immeasurable joy and fulfillment. During the recent European Championship held in Germany, Blind, now 34 years old, was utilized only once as a substitute during stoppage time by Dutch coach Ronald Koeman. Although he appeared briefly in the last 16 match against Romania in Munich, for the remaining games, he remained on the bench. Despite accepting his role as a reserve, he acknowledged that being part of the Dutch national team and participating in a European Championship were still great honors.
Blind made his first appearance on the international stage in 2013 when he played against Italy. He currently holds the fifth position on the list of Dutch players with the highest number of matches.
