Six-time Women’s Super League winner Maren Mjelde retires from international football | OneFootball

Maren Mjelde has retired from international football (Ane Frosaker / SPP)

Maren Mjelde, a six-time winner of the Women’s Super League, has retired from international football after 183 appearances for Norway.

The 35-year-old made her senior international debut at the age of 17 in Norway’s clash with Russia in October 2007.

After nearly 18 years, she has decided to call time on her international career.

Mjelde featured at nine international tournaments and held the captain’s armband for a decade.

She won a bronze medal at Euro 2009 and a silver at Euro 2013 four years later – losing to Germany in the final.

Mjelde was also part of the Norway squad that reached the quarter-finals of Women’s Euro 2025 this summer.

Norway are eighth favourite with betting sites at odds of 14/1 to win Euro 2029.

What did Maren Mjelde say in her international retirement announcement?

Former Chelsea and Everton star Maren Mjelde explained her decision to retire from international football on social media.

She wrote on Instagram: It has, in many ways, been almost unthinkable to me that this day would come. But after 18 magical years and 183 matches for Norway, it is time for me to say goodbye.

“A little girl had a big dream: to represent Norway, play in championships, and win medals. That dream came true, and I can, hand on heart, say that playing for the national team has been the greatest thing I have done in my career.

“To have the honor of being captain and leading the team for almost 10 years is something I look back on as my greatest privilege. I have always carried that responsibility with the utmost humility, and I can proudly look back on many wonderful moments, both for myself and for my family.

“This past year has, in many ways, been a bit of a rollercoaster for me personally. Last summer, I set myself the goal of doing everything I possibly could – absolutely everything – to make it to this summer’s European Championship. I made it, I played, and I am endlessly proud that I proved to myself that I could still perform at the highest level.”

What’s next for Mjelde’s club career?

Maren Mjelde is a free agent after leaving Everton this summer following a short stint at the Women’s Super League club.

She previously spent eight years at Chelsea, where she won six WSL titles.

The 35-year-old has not yet decided where she will play her club football next but a player of her experience is likely to find a club soon.