Burkina Faso Midfielder Retires From International Football

Midfielder Jonathan Pitroipa says he is thankful for the chance to play for Burkina Faso after retiring from international football.

The 33-year-old, who was capped 75 times, scored nineteen goals in his thirteen-year career.

Pitroipa was an integral part of Burkina Faso squad that reached the final at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations where he was named as the “Player of the Tournament” by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

“After a long thought, I decided to end my international career. Admittedly, the decision was very difficult to make, but it is time for me to write another page in my life,” he said as translated from French.

“Those thirteen years spent in the national team were huge of emotions and above all an incredible life experience.

“First of all, I would like to thank my team-mates, the fans, the people involved from near and far and without forgetting my family, my family who made this adventure so special.”

The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan in Khartoum in November marked the last appearance in a Burkina Faso shirt for Pitroipa.

The skilful attacking winger, started his club football with local club Planete Champion before moving to Europe where he played for clubs in Germany, Belgium, United Arab Emirates and France.

Pitroipa has also played for UAE clubs Al Jazira and Al Nasr after leaving French side Rennes where he made 91 appearances in his four seasons stay.

Pitroipa currently turns for French Ligue 2 side, a club that he joined after leaving Belgian top-flight outfit, Royal Antwerp.