Super Mario announces his international retirement

Croatia's second highest all time goalscorer Mario Mandžuki? has decided to call time on his international career at the age of 32.

Mandžuki?’s most recent stint with the national team resulted in a runners up medal at the 2018 World Cup where he managed to score three goals during the World Cup, providing a key part in aiding his sides run to the World Cup Final. 

He scored the equalising goal in Croatia's round of 16 game against Denmark and during Croatia's semi-final against England, Mandžuki? scored the match-winning goal in 109th minute to give Croatia a 2–1 win, as they would make the World Cup final for the first time in their history.

In the final against France, Mandžuki? became the first player ever to score an own goal in a World Cup final, when he headed Antoine Griezmann's free kick into his own net to give France a 1-0 advantage. He would later redeem himself and score Croatia's second goal by pouncing onto a mistake by French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. 

Having scored goals at either end in the final, he became the second player in World Cup history to score for both teams in a single match and the first play ever to do so in a World Cup final.

‘Super Mario’ began his international career at the age of 18 progressing through the underage ranks before making his senior debut in 2007 at the age of 21. Mandžuki? international career spanned 11 years making 89 appearances scoring 33 goals which puts him second only behind Davor Šuker in Croatia’s all time goalscorer charts.

In a letter penned to the Croatian fans Mandžuki? said: "Dear fans, I have always preferred to speak on the pitch, rather than off the pitch.”

“Therefore, it is more difficult to express these words than to tackle the opponent or sprint in 120th minute. More difficult, since I am aware how much joy all the international matches and victories bring to me. More difficult, since I am aware that there is nothing more emotional than listening to the national anthem before the kick-off.

“More difficult, since I am aware what an honour it is to wear Croatia jersey and to represent my country. More difficult, since I am aware that this is a final decision, and that there is no return, however, I am aware that this is the time to say it, I'm retiring from the Croatia squad.”

Speaking about his nations finish at the World Cup he said: “World Cup silver has given me new energy, but it has also made this incredibly difficult decision a bit easier. We have made our dreams come true, achieved a historic success, and experienced an unbelievable fan support.



“That month, including the welcome in Zagreb, Slavonski Brod, and the entire Croatia, will remain the most important memory of my career. This has been the most beautiful national team journey, and my favourite return to homeland. I am more than happy, fulfilled, and extremely proud of this silver, that has been forged through years, through pain, effort, work, disappointment, and difficult moments.”

Speaking about the pride he felt while playing for Croatia he added: “There is no ideal moment to retire. If possible, we would all play for Croatia until we die, since there is no prouder feeling, but I feel this moment has come for me - now. I've given my best for Croatia, I have contributed to the biggest success of Croatian football.

“14 years ago, in youth categories, I was wearing this sacred jersey for the first time. From then onwards, I have met, played with, and worked with many excellent players, managers, coaches, and other national team staff. We have all had the same objective - to give everything for Croatia's success. I thank them all, since they have all made a mark on my career. On that path, my family and closest friends were with me, and I thank them for all of their support.”

Signing off the letter Mandžuki?  finished by thanking the fans and saying he will now sit alongside them: “Finally, I would like to thank the fans. No one is perfect. I have missed opportunities, lost the ball, and made mistakes at passing, however, I have always given my best, playing my heart out, thank you for recognizing this, and standing by me and by Croatia.

“As of today, my place is alongside you - among the most loyal Croatia fans- Love, Mandžo”

    About Diarmuid Kearney

    View Full Profile