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Edin Džeko announces retirement from Bosnia and Herzegovina national team
Edin Džeko, the captain and all-time leading scorer for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team, has announced his retirement from international football. The 40-year-old striker, who currently plays for Schalke 04, will play his final match for his country on October 2, 2026, against Sweden in a UEFA Nations League fixture.
Džeko leaves the national team as its most-capped player with 151 appearances and its top goalscorer with 73 goals. He highlighted the immense pride he felt wearing the national jersey, describing it as a childhood dream. His career includes pivotal moments such as helping Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for their first World Cup in 2014.
UEFA acknowledged the announcement, referring to him as a “legend” and noting the end of an era. Following his departure, questions remain regarding who will succeed him as captain, with players like Sead Kolašinac and Amar Dedić noted as potential candidates based on recent appearances.
Entities
AC Milan · Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team · Croatia national football team · Croatian Football Federation · Edin Džeko · Luka Modrić · Schalke 04 · Sergej Barbarez · Slaven Bilić · Sweden · Sweden national football team · UEFA