MONTEVIDEO, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Edinson Cavani has retired from Uruguay's national team after an international career spanning 16 years.
The 37-year-old's announcement came despite his inclusion in Uruguay's squad for the Copa America in the United States, which runs from June 20 to July 14.
"I decided to step aside, but I will follow you with my beating heart forever in the same way that I used to do when I got to play with this beautiful shirt," the Boca Juniors striker said in a message posted on social media.
Cavani made 136 appearances for Uruguay and scored 58 goals after making his international debut in 2008. The former Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United player represented the Celeste at four World Cups.
"I want to dedicate my time to this new stage of my career and give everything wherever I go," he added. ■
