Official: Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan announces international retirement | OneFootball

Amid speculations over his future at FC Barcelona, German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has announced his retirement from international football.

The 33-year-old midfield heavyweight took to social media to make the announcement, drawing the curtains on an international career that has spanned over 13 years.

Indeed, Gundogan made his debut for Germany back in October 2011, under then-manager Joachim Low and went on to play 82 matches in which he scored 19 goals. The midfielder never won a major honour with Die Mannschaft, however.

Gundogan captained the German national team in the UEFA Euro 2024 earlier this summer in his homeland but could not lead them to a triumph as they were eliminated by eventual winners Spain at the quarterfinal stage.

Confirming his decision, Gundogan wrote: “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.”

Continuing, Gundogan stated that the highlight of his international career was captaining the national team at the Euros on home soil this year.

However, he stated that he had been feeling tired, both physically and mentally, even before the Euros, prompting his decision, especially with an increase in the number of games at club and international level.

Concluding, he wrote: “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 honour! Thank you, Germany!