113 caps, 19 goals – Manchester City’s Yaya Toure retires from international football

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has announced his retirement from international football.

The 33-year-old, who earned 113 caps for his native Ivory Coast, scoring 19 goals in the process, confirmed his decision via his official website.

Toure, who was national captain after taking the armband from Didier Drogba back in 2014, wrote, “Writing this note was probably ‘the most difficult match of my life’.

“After 14 years at the highest level, I’m sure this is the right time for me!

The Ivorian has failed to feature for Man City in the Premier League this campaign – Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

“The fact that I am 33 now, the intensity of training and the multitude of games are not the reasons why I am making this decision.”

The Citizens midfielder made his Ivory Coast debut back in June 2004, during a 2-1 win over Egypt, before guiding his country to their first Africa Cup of Nations triumph since 1992 only last year.

He added, “I would like to say solemnly that I am stopping!!!

“It’s true that I had several titles at clubs, national cups, league trophies. I played in Belgium, Ukraine, Greece, France and in Spain where I was able to win the prestigious Champions League with Barca in 2009 and also in England, where I continue to play.

“With the Elephants, it was even more special. I learned to win for my country. That’s why I will always retain the pride in having achieved four African Golden Balls for the Ivory Coast.”