At 40, Edin Dzeko has announced that he will step away from the Bosnia‑Herzegovina national team after a 19‑year international career that began in 2006 and spanned nearly two decades of service.
A Farewell in Zenica
His final appearance for his country will come on October 2 in Zenica, where he will face Sweden in what he hopes will be an emotional send‑off for the supporters who have followed him for nearly two decades.
Dzeko retires as the nation’s all‑time leading scorer with 73 goals, a tally that helped Bosnia‑Herzegovina qualify for the 2014 World Cup, marking the country’s first participation as an independent state after the dissolution of Yugoslavia.
In an heartfelt Instagram post, the striker reflected on his four decades with the national side, saying the decision was driven by personal contemplation and a desire to leave on his own terms. He will wear the shirt he has cherished since childhood, a symbol of the lifelong bond he feels with the team.
Beyond the international stage, Dzeko recently played a pivotal role in guiding Schalke 04 to promotion to the Bundesliga and has signed a one‑year contract with the German club, continuing his career in Europe.
Fans and analysts alike recognize his dedication, professionalism, and the lasting impact he has had on Bosnian football, a legacy that will endure long after his final whistle.