HOLLAND legend Wesley Sneijder has retired from international football after 14 years and 133 caps.
Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman flew to Qatar, where Sneijder now plays with Al-Gharafa, to inform him he would be going with a younger look moving forward.
Holland of course missed out on this summer’s World Cup in Russia after a disastrous qualifying campaign.
With ageing veterans including Sneijder and Arjen Robben in the squads, ex-Everton chief Koeman has decided it’s time for a completely new look.
On his chat with Sneijder, Koeman revealed: “Wesley is one of the best Dutch internationals in recent years, an amazing player with a great attitude.
“But I want to build a new team and therefore have to make choices.”
Sneijder had his say on the meeting, saying he respects the decisions of Holland’s former Everton boss.
The ex-Ajax ace revealed he knew his place in the international set-up would be in jeopardy when he moved to Al-Gharafa.
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Sneijder said: “On top of [moving to Qatar] I understand that Koeman wants to start a new era with newer, younger players.
“We spoke about this openly in a friendly discussion and I respect his decision.”
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Sneijder kicked-off his international career in 2003 – during his time with Ajax, where he turned out 126 times in the Dutch top-flight.
The Dutchman also played for Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Galatasaray and Nice, before joining Qatari side Al-Gharafa in January.
All in all, Sneijder played 133 times for Holland, helping his country to the runners-up spot at the 2010 World Cup and third in the 2014 edition.
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