İlkay Gündoğan, on Monday, August 19, 2024, announced his retirement from international football after guiding Germany through the Euro 2024 Championship.
Despite his Turkish descent, the Barcelona midfielder chose to adorn himself with the colours of the Die Manshafct, making his debut in 2011.
At the age of 34, he follows Toni Kroos and Thomas Mueller after a long and successful international career in hunging up his boots.
“After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career,” Gündoğan posted on social media.
“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.”
“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.”
