On Monday, Ilkay Gundogan announced his retirement from international football with Germany after leading his country at their home in the Euro 2024.
In October 2011, Gundogan made his debut for Germany against Belgium. However, he missed their 2014 World Cup triumph due to a back injury and was also out of Euro 2016 due to a dislocated kneecap.
The 33-year-old, who scored 19 goals in 82 appearances for his national side, shared his decision on social media.
“After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career,” Gundogan said.
“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,” he added while speaking to the German FA
The Barcelona midfielder captained the Germany team leading the side to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals eventually losing to the champions Spain in extra time.
“My highlight was clearly the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championship last summer,” said the Barcelona midfielder.
At Manchester City, Gundogan won five Premier Leagues and the Champions League in seven seasons, before moving to Spanish giants Barcelona last year. He did indicate his body feeling the effects of a busy schedule ahead of the European Championship.
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“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,” he said.
“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.
“We have a fantastic coach, a really strong team and a great team spirit.”
Made history as the first German captain of Turkish descent appearing in four major tournaments, but unused in the Euro 2012.
“Ilkay was an outstanding captain, with whom I would have liked to continue working,” said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.
“The door to the national team is never completely closed, but we respect his decision and wish him all the best for his future, both professionally and privately.”
Gündogan joins Thomas Müller in retirement, after Euro 2024, following a lean success in one of football’s most decorated nations.
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