Massimo Luongo makes shock decision to call time on his Socceroos career ahead of Asian Cup

Despite having only recently returned to international football, one Socceroo has decided that his international journey is over.

The Socceroos’ Asian Cup hopes have suffered another blow with experienced midfielder Massimo Luongo announcing his shock retirement from international football.

Luongo, 31, had rekindled his Socceroos career in October after an absence from the national team – often due to injuries – dating back to January 2019.

The Ipswich Town midfielder, who made 45 appearances for the Australia, seemed a certainty to be chosen in Australia’s squad for the Asian Cup, starting next month in Qatar.

However, citing the need to “manage” his “body”, Luongo has called time on his Socceroos career.

The decision will also ensure he doesn’t miss any games for his club side – that is pushing for promotion to the English Premier League – during the tournament.

“This hasn’t been a decision I’ve taken lightly, but I’ve got to prioritise managing my body as my career goes on,” said Sydney-born Luongo, who scored in the Socceroos’ 2015 Asian Cup final win over South Korea.

Massimo Luongo has called time on his international career.

Thanks for the memories Mass! 💚💛

📰 Read more: https://t.co/rCG1WYx8sJ#Socceroospic.twitter.com/ni6bFe4tUO

— Subway Socceroos (@Socceroos) December 20, 2023

“I’ve loved my journey with the national team and will always cherish the moments I’ve had in this jersey.”

Luongo’s international retirement will further test the Socceroos’ depth, with six other players – Brandon Borrello (Western Sydney Wanderers), Awer Mabil (Grasshoppers), Nick D’Agostino (Viking FK), Ryan Strain (St Mirren), Gianni Stensness (Viking FK) and Bailey Wright (Lion City) – all injured and unavailable for selection.

Also not being considered for selection are midfielder Ajdin Hrustic and defender Fran Karacic due to their lack of football at club level.

Socceroos coach Graham Arnold – who has been left “disappointed” by Luongo’s retirement decision – is also sweating on the fitness of captain Mat Ryan (fractured cheekbone) and winger Mathew Leckie (knee).

“When it comes down to it, Mass needs to do what’s right for him and his family,” Arnold said.

“After a tough period of injuries, we were just so pleased to see him fit again and settled into a club where he was enjoying his football and playing well.

“It was fantastic to have him back in camp working with some of our young midfielders, who I know took a lot out of that experience.

“He’s been an enormous contributor to the Socceroos across the course of his career and we wish him all the best.”

Arnold will confirm his full squad for the tournament on Friday.

Originally published as Massimo Luongo makes shock decision to call time on his Socceroos career ahead of Asian Cup