Uganda's Onyango quits international football

by Staff Reporter

Tuesday Apr 13, 2021. 09:03

Uganda captain Denis Onyango has announced his retirement from international football.

The accomplished goalkeeper has decided to end his 16-year international career after Uganda failed to qualify for the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

Onyango, who is on the books of South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns, played over 70 international matches for the Cranes since 2005.

The 35-year-old made the announcement on his official Twitter account on Monday night:

“It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my retirement from international football,” Onyango wrote.

“After much consideration, my family, managers and I, decided it was in my best interest to hang my gloves on my beloved Cranes of Uganda Big thanks to every Ugandan over the years.

“Writing to the Federation of Uganda Football Association, Onyango, who turns 36 on Thursday, said he believes the Uganda coach will have enough time to select a new captain and number one goalkeeper before the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers,” he continued.

“The letter represents my official notice of retirement from the Uganda national football team. It has been a great pleasure and honour to represent my country and I will always appreciate the experience and knowledge that I have gained while playing for the Cranes.

“I believe that my notice period is sufficient enough for the technical team to adequately prepare my replacement for the upcoming days. “By remaining a true patriot and supporter of football in my beloved Uganda, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours and challenges.”

Onyango captained Uganda at the 2019 AFCON finals in Egypt where he helped the Cranes reach the Round of 16.