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Germany's football team captain Ilkay Gundogan took to social media to announce retirement from international football. The German midfielder, who was last seen leading the side in the 2024 Euro Cup, saw Germany lose against the eventual champions Spain by 1-2 in the quarterfinals.
Gunodgan, who made his debut for the Germany in a match against Belgium in October 2011, however, couldn’t be a part of Germany’s FIFA World Cup triumph in 2014 due to a back injury. He also missed the 2016 Euro Cup after a dislocated kneecap. In his international career of over 13 years, he has played 82 matches, where he scored 19 goals.
I felt a certain type of fatigue: Ilkay Gundogan in his retirement post
Ilkay Gundogan shared a lengthy post on social media while announcing retirement from international football. He mentioned that suffered fatigue in his body and head that made him take a decision to bid adieu to international football. Gundogan also thanked his fans, support staff and coaches who were a part of his international career. The 33-year-old also counted Germany as one of the closest contenders to win the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
“After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career. I look back with great pride on 82 international matches for my home country – a number that I could never have dreamed of when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011,” Gundogan wrote.
“I felt a certain tiredness in my body and also in my head, which got me thinking. And the games at club and national level are not going to get any less. I will definitely continue to be a fan of this national team and very much hope that the upward trend can continue together – and then there is nothing to stop us from being one of the main title contenders at the 2026 World Cup,” the former German footballer quoted.
“We have a fantastic coach, a really strong team and a great team spirit. Thank you to all the fans, staff, coaches, and fellow players who have been with me on the way. It’s been an honour! Thank you, Germany,” he concluded.
