Captain Sara Gama has announced her departure from the national team after a near two-decade long career. Her final match wearing the national team shirt will take place during a friendly game at Viola Park against Ireland on Friday 23rd. This will be her 140th time wearing the shirt, marking the end of an extraordinary journey. This decision was made in conjunction with Club Italia and technical commissioner, Andrea Soncin, and signifies the end of a chapter for one of the most influential players in Italian women’s football. Gama, soon to turn 35, will play her final game against Ireland as the team’s captain. The day will be marked with a celebratory shirt and pennant presentation by FIGC President, Gabriele Gravina.
Gama shared, “Today I announce the decision to officially leave the Italian national team. It has been an incredible journey filled with immense emotions and significant changes. I’ve given everything and chose to leave in alignment with the coach who has respectfully supported me in this decision.”
Gama continued, “I chose to leave now as we begin a new cycle. I’ve contributed towards establishing a solid foundation for the future and imparting the right values to a team with immense potential. I leave where it all began and where significant moments of our national team took place. Here, in the heart of our football, where I grew and learned so much. My gratitude goes out to all those who have been a part of our story – my family, teammates, staff, professionals, and fans.”
“Throughout my career, I’ve used both my body and mind on and off the pitch. I’ve striven to inspire and I believe some of my words and actions have made a difference. My love and passion for this game and this shirt will always be with me. I am thankful for the love and support I’ve received and for all those who felt represented by me in this blue shirt.”
Gama’s departure comes less than two months prior to the start of the qualifiers for the 2025 European Championship in Switzerland. Gama has played in the European Championship four times and was part of the team that qualified for the 2019 World Cup after 20 years of absence. She’s also celebrated victory with the Under 19 national team, who won the European category title in July 2008 – the only trophy won by an Italian women’s national team. Gama debuted with the senior national team in June 2006 and has since played 139 matches, making her the fourth Italian footballer with the highest number of appearances for the national team. Her 140th match, against the team she scored her first national team goal against in 2007, will close this chapter of her career, providing a fitting tribute to her contribution to Italian football.
