Germany skipper Ilkay Gundogan retires from International football

İlkay Gündoğan declared his resignation from his international role for Germany. The 33-year-old has had a busy day; he is rumored to be leaving Barcelona soon and may make a return to Manchester City. The national team skipper used social media to announce the news.

The FC Barcelona veteran said that, “Dear football Germany, After a few weeks of consideration, 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 I could never have dreamed of when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011.”

The former Manchester City playmaker added, “My highlight was definitely the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championships last summer! After all these years, we finally managed to make the nation proud again – I’m very happy that I was able to play a part in that. But even before the tournament, 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 getting any less.”

“It was an honor! Thank you, Germany!” : Ilkay Gundogan

As previously stated, Ilkay Gündoğan played 82 matches for his nation, scoring 19 goals and leading them to the UEFA Euro 2024. He regrettably had a major knee injury that prevented him from winning the 2014 World Cup, therefore he leaves international football empty-handed.

The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder concluded by saying that, “I will definitely continue to be a fan of this national team and I really hope that we can continue the upward trend together – and then there is nothing to stop us from being one of the closest contenders for the title at the 2026 World Cup. We have a fantastic coach, a really strong team and a great team spirit. Thanks to all the fans, staff, coaches and teammates who have accompanied me on this journey. It was an honor! Thank you, Germany! Your Ilkay”