İlkay Gündoğan Announces Retirement From Germany International Team

Germany captain, Ilkay Gündogan, announced his retirement from international football on Monday.

Throughout his 16-year career, the 33-year-old has represented the German national team in 82 matches, finding the back of the net 19 times

“After a few weeks of reflection,” Gündogan posted on X, “I have decided that it is time to end my national team career.”

Gündogan reflects on 82 caps with ‘great pride’

“I can look back with great pride on 82 caps for my home country a number I could never have dreamed of when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011.”

Germany recently hosted the European Football Championships, and being the national team’s skipper during the event was a “huge honor,” Gündogan said.

“After all those years, we finally managed to make the nation proud again I’m very happy that I was able to play a part in that.”

The German Football Federation (DFB) were keen to express their gratitude towards Gündogan. “We will miss you as our captain and teammate. As our friend, you always had a secure place in the team. Thank you for everything, Illy!

Most recently, the midfielder served as captain of his national team during the 2024 European Championships, which took place in Germany this summer.

The hosts were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Spain, who went on to win the tournament.

Gündogan is expected to continue his club football career, although there are rumors he may leave FC Barcelona this summer.