Ilkay Gündogan, the captain of Germany’s national team during Euro 2024, has announced his retirement from international football. Since his first appearance in 2011, the midfielder has participated in 82 matches.
In October 2011, Gundogan made his first international appearance for the German national team against Belgium. However, he was unable to participate in their World Cup victory in 2014 due to a back injury.
“I am extremely proud of my 82 caps for my country. It is a number that I could never have imagined when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011.”
Germany recently hosted the European Football Championships, and Gündogan expressed that being the captain of the national team during the tournament was a “tremendous honour.”
“After all these years, we have finally succeeded in making our nation proud once again. I am incredibly happy to have played a role in that achievement.”
The German Football Association (DFB) expressed their appreciation to Gündogan, emphasizing their gratitude for his leadership and camaraderie. They acknowledged him as a valued member of the team and extended their thanks for his contributions.
Moving forward, Gündogan is expected to pursue his club football career, with rumors suggesting a potential departure from FC Barcelona and a return to Manchester City in the upcoming summer.
