Albania remains without an icon: Amir Abrashi ends his career with the National Team after 12 years
Amir Abrashi has ended his career with the Albanian National Team at the age of 35, thus closing a golden chapter that lasted 12 years.
The midfielder from Gjakova, currently part of Grasshoppers in Switzerland, joined the Rossoneri in 2013 and made his debut in the 2-0 win against Armenia.
Since that day, he has played 51 games for Albania, scoring one goal and providing four assists, while becoming one of the most important leaders of his generation.
His departure from the National Team marks the end of an era for the red and black team, as Abrashi has been a key part of many historic challenges, always distinguished for his character, sacrifice and professionalism.
He has often been described as the "Heart and Soul of the National Team" thanks to the great sacrifice he has made in midfield, while participating in two European Championships with Albania, in 2016 and 2024.
Below is Amir Abrashi's full statement, which he dedicated to the fans and the entire red and black family:
"Dear red and black fans, Today I want to address you with my hand on my heart to inform you that I am closing my chapter with the Albanian National Team.
This is not an easy decision, because the red and black jersey has been and will always remain the greatest honor of my life. Every match, every challenge, every moment of joy or pain, I have lived with soul, for you and for our country.
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support you have given me over the years. You have been my strength, my greatest motivation and the reason why I have always given my all on the field.
I am grateful to have been part of this extraordinary journey and to have had the fortune to fight for the red and black colors.
The national team is my second family, and you, the fans, are its heart.
Even though my career with Albania ends here, my heart remains forever red and black.
Finally, I want to express my deepest gratitude to President Duka, for his trust and support at every step. I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart coaches Gianni De Biasi, Christian Panucci, Edoardo Reja and Sylvinho for the work, leadership and trust they have given me throughout these years. A special thank you goes to the entire AFF staff, who have always been of extraordinary support at every moment of this journey.
"Thank you for everything," Abrashi wrote. /Telegraph/
