Saman Kodos, a player of the Iranian national football team, posted a message on social media and announced that he will end his playing career after 9 years in the national team. During this period he played 71 national matches and scored three goals.
Kodos wrote in his farewell message: "After 9 unforgettable years, it's time to say goodbye to the Iran national team. Wearing this shirt was one of the greatest honors of my life; An honor that brought me memories, experiences and feelings that will be with me forever."
He added on the difficulty of his decision: "Choosing to represent Iran and its people was one of the easiest decisions in my life; "But the decision to say goodbye is one of the hardest decisions I've made in my entire life."
Referring to his time in the national team and the attempt to wear the captain's armband, Kodos wrote: "All these years I tried my best to represent the people of my country in the best possible way, both on and off the field. "The honor of wearing the captain's armband of my national team will always have a special place in my heart."
The player also thanked his teammates, coaches, staff and fans for their support over the past nine years.
At the end of his address to the people of Iran, Kudos wrote: "Thank you for giving me this opportunity to represent you. I hope I managed to make you proud. Long live Iran."