Overview
- Marcos Llorente announced on Instagram that he will close his international career, posting his decision Thursday as a personal choice he had 'long thought about' and confirming it predated the World Cup.
- The 31-year-old leaves Spain with 27 caps, no international goals and participation in two World Cups, with his last appearance coming on 14 July 2026 in the World Cup semifinal versus France.
- Atlético de Madrid issued a public message praising Llorente’s commitment and calling him part of Spanish football history after the announcement.
- Llorente’s value came from his positional versatility — used as a midfielder, right wing and converted to right-back at club level — which made him a flexible option for national coaches despite a relatively small number of appearances.
- Spain coach Luis de la Fuente now faces a selection decision to replace a multifaceted squad member, with attention likely to fall on depth at right-back and wide midfield roles in upcoming call-ups.