Borussia Dortmund's Turkish star Nuri Şahin has retired from international football, the 29-year-old midfielder announced on his Twitter and Instagram accounts Friday.

"I believe in the magical power of change and passing on positions when the time comes. This is a relay race," Şahin said in his statement. "With a good planning, I believe we have a generation of young players that will make Turkey successful in the next 10-15 years." He added that "Every time I put on a Turkey shirt, every minute playing for Turkey was the proudest moments of my life."

The Dortmund player made his international debut for Turkey at the age of 17, in an exhibition match against Germany. Şahin scored twice in his 52 appearances for the Turkey national team. Turkey has failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.