BERLIN: Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan announced his retirement from international football on Monday, citing both physical and mental fatigue.
In a statement shared on social media, Gundogan expressed his decision to end his national team career following his leadership role at Euro 2024. “After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career,” he said.
Gundogan, who made his debut for Germany in 2011, reflected on his international career with pride, noting, “I look back with great pride on 82 international matches for my home country—a number that I could never have dreamed of.”
Under Gundogan’s captaincy, Germany reached the Euro 2024 quarter-finals but were defeated by eventual champions Spain in extra time. Gundogan admitted that the busy schedule leading up to the tournament contributed to his decision. “I felt a certain tiredness in my body and head, which got me thinking. And the games at club and national level are not going to get any less,” he said.
