Berlin, Aug 20: Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan has announced his retirement from international football, ending a notable career with the national team. The 34-year-old Barcelona midfielder made the decision following Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign, where they reached the quarterfinals before being defeated by Spain.
“After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career,” Gundogan stated in a German FA release. “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’s tenure with Germany was marked by highs and lows. He missed Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph due to a back injury and was also sidelined for Euro 2016 because of a dislocated kneecap. Despite these setbacks, Gundogan’s leadership during Euro 2024, where he captained the team in their home tournament, stands out as a significant highlight of his career.