Daniele De Rossi and Andrea Barzagli have joined Gianluigi Buffon in announcing their retirement from international play after Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.
The Azzurri missed out on Russia 2018 after settling for a 0-0 draw with Sweden in Milan on Monday, as the visitors advanced to the World Cup on the strength of a 1-0 first-leg victory.
The stunning setback marked Italy’s first failure to qualify for a World Cup since 1958.
A teary Buffon confirmed his retirement from Italy duty after 175 caps post-game, with fellow 2006 World Cup winners De Rossi and Barzagli soon following suit.
Buffon’s Juventus team-mate Barzagli steps away from international play having represented his country 73 times since 2004, including trips to two World Cups, three European Championships and a Confederations Cup.
“In football terms, it’s the biggest disappointment of my life,” the 36-year-old defender told Rai Sport.
“The Italy side gives you unique sensations. It gives you goosebumps, creates friendships between all the Italy fans. It’s a real shame to end like this.
“I don’t know what we missed, all I know is we’re out of the World Cup, it’s a unique disappointment and leaving this group of lads is painful.
“Everyone has their own feelings, but it’s really hard to accept right now.”
De Rossi, 34, finishes his Italy career with 117 caps and 21 goals since 2004. The Roma midfielder represented Italy at three World Cups, three European Championships and a Confederations Cup.
The retirements mark the end of an era for Italy, as the four-time World Cup champions turn the page on a storied generation and look ahead to Euro 2020.
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