Victor Lindelof, a defender for Manchester United, shown class on Sunday night while playing for Sweden on international duty by willingly stepping down as captain.

After Andreas Granqvist retired in August 2021, the 29-year-old was chosen captain of his nation. He has now captained the Blue and Yellow 17 times in total.

But the United number two chose to forego his duties in Sweden’s most recent Euro 2024 qualifying match against Estonia for a unique cause. Albin Ekdal received the armband from him as he prepared for his 70th and last international match.

Victor and Ekdal have played together for the majority of Ekdal’s Swedish career, and they shared the field once more as the Spezia midfielder capably finished with a 2-0 victory.

In a post on Instagram, Lindelof candidly wrote: “End of a great journey. It’s been an honour my friend ”.

After Hugo Larsson replaced Ekdal on 72 minutes in Stockholm, the player himself received a standing ovation.

The hosts won 2-0 at the Friends Arena thanks to goals from Emil Forsberg and Viktor Claesson. Victor ultimately received his armband back after playing the entire ninety minutes in the match.

Victor and Sweden, regrettably, will not be competing in Euro 2024 next summer since they placed third in their qualifying group.

In addition, head coach Janne Andersson has decided to retire. This is the first time since 1996 that his nation has failed to advance to the European Championship finals.