Albanian Football Association (FSHF) President Armand Duka has reacted on social media following Ivan Balliu’s decision to retire from the Albanian national team.
In an emotional message, the FSHF head praised the defender’s contribution, describing him as an exemplary professional and a footballer who wore the red-and-black shirt with pride and dedication.
Duka stressed that Balliu was always ready to give his contribution for Albania, while he described the decision to end his adventure with the national team as the closing of an important chapter in his career.
“Ivan Balliu was always ready for the national team. A defender of rare quality, an exemplary professional and a man who wore the red shirt with love and pride.
With the decision to retire from the national team, Ivan closes an important chapter of his career.
Ivan, I thank you from the heart for choosing Albania, for representing your roots and for giving so much to the national team. I have great respect for you, both as a footballer and as a person. I hope this journey with Albania has been as special for you as it has been for us to have you in the team.
You have written your name in big letters in the history of our national team. Thank you, Ivan! ¡Gracias, Ivan!”, wrote Duka.
