IIkay Gundogan has retired from international football at the age of 33.
Gundogan announced his retirement in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday.
He wrote: “Dear football Germany, After a few weeks of consideration, I have 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.
“My highlight was definitely the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championships last summer! After all these years, we finally managed to make the nation proud again – I’m very happy that I was able to play a part in that.
“But even before the tournament, 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 getting any less.
“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 honor! Thank you, Germany!”
The midfielder made his debut for Germany’s senior team in October 2011 after replacing Philipp Lahm in the 84th minute against Belgium in the UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying match at the Esprit Arena, Dusseldorf – and they won 3-1 at the end of the game.
He was eventually selected for the Euro 2012 squad and named captain by Hansi Flick in 2023.
He represented his country in 82 games and registered 19 goals.
According to reports, Gundogan will leave Barcelona this summer with a possibility of rejoining Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to continue his club career.
