Marcos Llorente retires from Spain duty at 31 after World Cup Victory, to continue Club Career

Marcos Llorente has brought his Spain career to an unexpected end at the age of 31, announcing his retirement from international football just weeks after being part of the country’s triumphant FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.

The Atletico Madrid star revealed his decision on social media, explaining that it was the result of lengthy personal reflection. Importantly, Llorente stressed that his decision had already been made before the World Cup and was not dependent on whether he was selected for the tournament or whether Spain went on to lift the trophy.

“I am aware that I am still young and that, perhaps, if I continued to do things well, I still had years left to play in this jersey,” Llorente said.

“I know that many of you won’t understand, and I probably wouldn’t have understood it from the outside either. But it is a personal decision, very carefully considered and, above all, deeply felt.”

World Cup triumph brings emotional farewell

Llorente’s decision comes at the highest possible point of his international career. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup final to claim the country’s second World Cup title, with Llorente part of the squad that completed the historic campaign.

The versatile player made three appearances during the tournament, including a substitute appearance in Spain’s semi-final victory over France. He had started the competition at right-back before Pedro Porro took over the position later in the campaign.

Llorente also made it clear that the World Cup result did not influence his decision.

“Regardless of whether I had gone to the World Cup or not, or whether we had won or not, I had already made this decision,” he said.

Llorente made his Spain debut against the Netherlands in November 2020 and went on to collect 27 senior caps without scoring. His versatility made him a valuable option, with the Atletico player capable of operating in midfield as well as at right-back.

His international career included appearances at the 2022 World Cup and the 2026 tournament, while he was part of the broader Spain setup during the period in which La Roja won the 2023 Nations League. He was not selected for Euro 2024.

Reflecting on his final days with the national team, Llorente thanked his teammates and staff for giving him memories he and his family would never forget.

“It has been a source of pride to represent my country and be part of this story. Thank you for everything,” he said.

The player will continue his club career as he has been part of the Atletico Madrid squad this season. Llorente was part of Real Madrid academy and, after 39 appearances for them, joined Atletico Madrid in 2019. Since then, he has made 303 appearances for Atleti and has netted 36 times.