Iker Casillas has hinted at retirement after reaching a milestone of 166 appearances for the Spanish national team.
The goalkeeper is now the joint record holder for the most number of appearances for a national team by a European player.VitalijsAstafjevs of Latvia also holds the record, but Casillas could pass this achievement before the start of Euro 2016. After reaching this landmark, the former Real Madrid goalkeeper hinted that he may finally hang up his boots for the national team. In a stellar career that has seen him win every major honour at club and international level, Casillas has been regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the world.
His period with the Spanish national team has coincided with one of the most dominating periods by any national team in world football. Spain won 2 European Championships and one World Cup title under the captaincy of Casillas. However, his stature at international level has fallen considerably following his poor form in the last two years and exit from Real Madrid. Currently with FC Porto in Portugal, Casillas has been linked with a move to the Premier league. The 34-year-old is likely to continue playing at club level for a few more years.
“The time of my retirement is getting closer and closer.It’s clear that time passes everyone and I am no exception of that.But I have hope and I would like to be with this team full of youngsters. I don’t know if it’s my last year with Spain, I only think about enjoying each day.I am happy to reach 166 games and be the player with the most games for the national team. In these years I have lived good times and bad times, but I will stick with the good ones,” said Casillas.