Mario Mandzukic of Croatia celebrates scoring the 2-1 lead during the FIFA World Cup 2018 semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Moscow, Russia, 11 July 2018. EPA-EFE/PETER POWELL 
"I think the time has come for me now. I gave my best for Croatia and I have contributed to the greatest success in Croatian football," Mandzukic said in a letter circulated by the federation.
The Juventus player said that losing 4-2 to France in the World Cup final to take the runner-up spot had given him "new energy but also made this incredible decision easier". DM