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Midfielder Massimo Luongo has called time on his international career after 45 caps for the Socceroos.
The 31-year-old, who plays for Ipswich Town in the English Championship, returned to the Socceroos side in 2023, ending a four-year hiatus that came about through injury and a lack of first-team appearances.
However, after playing against New Zealand in a 2-0 friendly win in London, Luongo decided it was time to put his body first.
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”It was a hugely frustrating time to be on the sidelines so regularly and, to be honest, there were many points in the last few years where I felt my international career had passed me by. To eventually have everything come together and get that call from Arnie [coach Graham Arnold] was a great reward for all that hard work,” he said.
“Coming back into camp was an amazing experience and to be able to get back on the pitch against New Zealand was a really nice moment for me and my family.
“My family have been unbelievable throughout my entire career, supporting me every step of the way. They’ve given me the opportunity to live out my dream of representing Australia and for that I’ll always be grateful.
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“This hasn’t been a decision I’ve taken lightly, but I’ve got to prioritise managing my body as my career goes on. I’ve loved my journey with the national team and will always cherish the moments I’ve had in this jersey. I look forward to watching on now as this group of young players drive the Socceroos culture forward.”
Luongo made his debut in 2014 in a friendly against Ecuador before playing in two World Cups (2014 and ’18) and two Asian Cups (’15 and ’19).
The 2015 Asian Cup is where the midfielder played his best football for the national side, claiming the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament honour after Australia won the title under Ange Postecoglou.
Football Australia chief executive officer James Johnson acknowledged Luongo’s contribution towards that special tournament victory.
“On behalf of Football Australia, I’d like to congratulate Massimo on a wonderful career for the Subway Socceroos and wish him the very best for the future,” he said.
“The 2015 Asian Cup is something that will live long in the memory of Australian football fans and Massimo played a leading role in what was an historic moment for our game.”
Arnold expressed his delight at seeing the 31-year-old return to the set-up before announcing his retirement.
“When it comes down to it, Mass needs to do what’s right for him and his family,” he said.
“He’s been through the highs and lows of football and throughout his career has shown us his prodigious talent, his incredible professionalism and his qualities as a leader.
“After a tough period of injuries, we were just so pleased to see him fit again and settled into a club where he was enjoying his football and playing well. It was fantastic to have him back in camp working with some of our young midfielders, who I know took a lot out of that experience.
“He’s been an enormous contributor to the Socceroos across the course of his career and we wish him all the best.”
