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Atletico Madrid star Marcos Llorente has stunned the football world by announcing his immediate retirement from international football. Even though he is only 31 and has just come off a historic World Cup triumph, the versatile midfielder has chosen to bring the curtain down on his Spain career.

A shocking exit at the peak

In a decision that has taken many supporters by surprise, Llorente has confirmed that he is permanently stepping away from the Spanish national team. The Atletico Madrid standout, who recently helped Spain win the 2026 World Cup staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, feels this is the right time to walk away from the international game.

Llorente shared the news of his decision in an emotional farewell message to fans and team-mates. The former Real Madrid player admitted that the timing may appear unusual to outsiders, but stressed that it was a deeply personal call. He ends his international career with 27 caps, having represented Spain at two World Cups and one European Championship.

Reflecting on a golden era

The midfielder-turned-defender issued a heartfelt statement about his departure. Llorente said: 'After thinking about it for a long time, I have decided to close my stage with the National Team. I am aware that I am still young and that, perhaps, if I continued doing things well, I would still have years left to continue playing in this shirt. I know many of you won't understand, and I probably wouldn't have understood it from the outside either. But it's a personal decision, very carefully considered and, above all, deeply felt.'

He went on to make it clear that the outcome of the recent tournament did not shape his choice: '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. I can only be infinitely grateful to all the people I have met during these years who have made it possible for my family and me to experience unique and unforgettable moments. I'll cherish everything I've experienced, but above all, these last 52 days. With a wonderful group that fought until the very end to put Spain on top. And they did. It's been an honor to represent my country and be part of this story. Thank you for everything. Hugs to all.'

From debut to World Champion

Llorente's journey in international football saw him progress through the ranks, playing for Spain's Under-19 and Under-21 teams before breaking into the senior side. His first senior appearance came against the Netherlands in 2020 at the Amsterdam Arena. Interestingly, he had also made his youth-team debut against the same opponents in Katwijk aan Zee under Luis de la Fuente, who later went on to manage the senior side during the closing years of Llorente's international career.

While he was an important figure during Luis Enrique's time in charge, Llorente found it difficult to hold on to a regular starting place. He was notably omitted from the squad for the most recent European Championship, with De la Fuente preferring experienced options Jesus Navas and Dani Carvajal at right-back.

Ongoing focus with Atletico Madrid

Llorente has played in all three of Atletico Madrid's opening matches this season, helping Diego Simeone's side record two wins and one draw. That unbeaten start has left the Madrid club third in the La Liga table as they aim to build early momentum in the title race.

The versatile midfielder already has domestic silverware with the club, having played an important role in Atletico Madrid's La Liga title-winning campaign in 2020-21. His energetic displays that season were vital in helping Simeone's team secure the league crown.