Rani Khedira has announced his retirement from international football with Tunisia, ending his national team career after just six months. The decision follows Tunisia's group-stage exit at the 2026 World Cup, where they lost all three matches.
Khedira, the 32-year-old vice-captain of 1.FC Union Berlin, said in a statement: "After the World Cup, it's time to look ahead." He added: "Tunisia has many young and talented players who have the potential to shape the future of the national team." Khedira played in every one of Tunisia's three matches at the global tournament.
The retirement comes as Tunisia handles a difficult period, sitting fourth in their World Cup group with 0 points from three games. They scored only two goals while conceding twelve. A run of five consecutive defeats since the tournament, including a 1-3 loss to the Netherlands on June 25, provides the context for a renewal.
Tunisia's next fixture is at home against Uganda on September 24, their first test post-Khedira. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. The available squad list can be viewed on the squad page, with Mortadha Ben Ouanes currently sidelined.
Khedira concluded his statement by saying wearing the Tunisia jersey was "a great honor," expressing hope the team receives the calm and consistency needed to achieve its future sporting goals.
Further reading: ca.sports.yahoo.com
