Uganda Cranes skipper Denis Masinde Onyango has retired from international football. The player confirmed this on Monday evening via his social media platforms.
“It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my retirement from International Football. After much consideration, my family, managers and I decided it was in my best interest to hang my gloves on my beloved Cranes. Big thanks to every Ugandan over the years,” he noted.
Onyango also wrote to FUFA President, Moses Magogo notifying him and the Federation about his decision.
“This letter represents my official notice of retirement from the Uganda National Football Team, The Cranes effective April 12, 2021.”
“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 Uganda Cranes,” he added.
The development comes in the wake of an ongoing conflict between FUFA President, Magogo and players.
On Saturday, last week, a leaked audio of Onyango pinned Magogo for being selfish and not caring about the well-being of players.
This came after the FUFA boss made statements in regard to the questions posed by former Uganda Cranes winger Mike Mutyaba who claims the Federation has not paid players for their appearance at CHAN 2021 in Cameroon and other engagements.
In response, Magogo indicated the players should get the stick whenever they post poor performances and termed Uganda’s display at CHAN as ‘shitty.’
Onyango is the second player to announce retirement, following Hassan Wasswa Mawanda who also hang up his boots on Saturday.
The gangly goalkeeper who currently plays at Mamelodi Sundowns has played 79 games on the senior national team since making his debut in 2005 against Cape Verde.