Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick retires from International football with Czechia

The Leverkusen marksman steps away from the Czech international scene as their third-best ever goal-scorer in international football.

Photo: Molly Darlington/Getty Images.

As their ambitions of reaching the 2026 World Cup knockout stage went up in smoke after a 3-0 defeat to Mexico, Patrik Schick has confirmed his retirement from the Czechia national team.

The 30-year-old marksman, who with 26 goals in 56 appearances is the country's third-best international goal-scorer, left a message for his fans on Instagram after the game:

“Today, my chapter with the national team comes to a close. This decision was not made impulsively, nor did it happen overnight. It is something I have carried with me and reflected upon for a long time.

"It has been a journey filled with emotions, joy, disappointments, victories, and difficult moments. I have always strived to give my best for the national team and to represent our country as well as possible.

"I look back with pride on what I achieved while wearing the national team jersey. At the same time, however, I feel that Czech football has far, far more potential than it has shown in recent years.

"We have to face the truth and change many things that simply haven't been working for a long time. I say this not out of anger or disappointment, but because Czech football is close to my heart.

"I want to thank all the fans, teammates, and people who have supported me throughout this time. It was an honor to wear the Czech jersey.”