[Saba Sports News] In the World Cup Round of 16, Austria lost 0-3 to Spain. After the match, 37-year-old veteran Marko Arnautović announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 18-year career with the national team. Arnautović shed emotional tears during an interview with the media: “This hits me hard because I will no longer be able to step onto the pitch alongside my second family. Congratulations to Spain, we gave it our all. Spain is an exceptional side, and it’s a shame we couldn’t pull off the result. Still, we can hold our heads high and be proud of ourselves.” Thursday marked Arnautović’s 137th cap for Austria, and this 0-3 defeat to Spain in the World Cup Round of 16 turned out to be his final appearance for the national team. After 18 years of service, the 37-year-old striker has officially closed the chapter on his international career.
The editor believes that representing Austria at the World Cup stands as the highlight of Marko Arnautović’s career. Now, the all-time top goalscorer for Austria has brought his international career to an end, bidding a reluctant farewell to his “second family”.