Italy has had a long list of iconic defenders as part of their soccer team. The likes of Paolo Maldini, Nesta, and Fabio Cannavaro were legendary defenders who dominated the game. Following their departure, Giorgio Chiellini has been the man for Italy.

The 37-year-old, who has been plying his trade with Juventus since 2004, is still going strong. He has not seen a dip in form for either club or country and continues to perform at the highest level. However, the Italian National Team captain has decided to walk away on his own terms after a mind-blowing 116 times.

Giorgio Chiellini announces his International retirement

The defender spoke about his future in an interview with DAZN and revealed that he is planning to retire in the summer. Chiellini said that barring any injuries, he would retire from the national team after playing in the Finalissima against Argentina at Wembley Stadium.

“I’ll say goodbye to the national team at Wembley, which is where I experienced the pinnacle of my career winning the Euros. I’d like to say goodbye to the Azzurri with a nice memory. That will certainly be my last game with Italy,” Chiellini said. (h/t ESPN)

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The Finalissima is a match organized between the winners of Copa America (Argentina) and Euros (Italy). The veteran defender would want to end his career on a high and this match gives him the perfect opportunity to do so.

Italy failed to make it to the Qatar World Cup 2022

Chiellini’s sudden retirement can be blamed on the fact that Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar. North Macedonia knocked the Azzurri in a Play-off to deny them a trip to soccer’s biggest festival for the second time in a row.

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However, Chiellini’s legacy was made when he captained his nation to their UEFA Euros triumph. He led by example as Italy beat England in London. The Juventus star was incredible at the heart of the Italian defense and, along with Juventus teammate Leonardo Bonucci, made sure that nothing went past him.

What do you make of this decision? Is Chiellini’s retirement surprising?