- Gündogan concludes his tenure with the DFB: "Deeply satisfied"
Ilkay Gundogan, after pondering for a while, declared his intention to hang up his international boots, just over a month after Germany's gut-wrenching elimination from the Euros. At 33, the skilled midfielder, who has represented Germany in 82 matches, surprised everyone with his sudden announcement. The new head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, now has the task of choosing a successor to guide the team towards the 2026 World Cup.
Gundogan shared his decision on Instagram, stating, "After some contemplation, I've concluded that it's high time to conclude my international journey. I look back on 82 international games with a sense of achievement – a figure I never thought I'd reach when I first put on the Germany jersey in 2011. It was an immense honor to captain the team during last year's home Euros."
Gundogan will continue his professional journey, currently with FC Barcelona. However, there are whispers that he might consider moving clubs this summer. No definite destination has been mentioned yet.
Nagelsmann admired Gundogan, remarking, "It's with esteem that I can say Ilkay was our captain. He played an outstanding Euros for football-Germany. His intellect always intrigued me, and his ball control and smart, precise passes were inspirational. Our players are expected to deliver passes with a message, and Ilkay always delivered just that. He often stood out, but more often, he elevated others in the national team. His subtle touch will be dearly missed."
Nagelsmann had believed he could still plan with Gundogan for the commencement of the Nations League in September. "Naturally, I'd be delighted if he stays. For now, I presume he'll still be an option," Nagelsmann said a day after the quarterfinal defeat.
Now, Nagelsmann must bid farewell to his captain: "For me and us, he was a vital point of reference. Brainstorming with him was enriching, even on topics beyond football. Ilkay was an exceptional captain, and I would have cherished continuing our collaboration."
Gundogan was praised by Rudi Voeller upon his departure: "Ilkay is an exceptional footballer. He left everyone in Germany enchanted with his extraordinary skills during the home Euros, and he elevated the team with his excellent game intelligence and brilliant runs and passes."
Voeller added, "Many could take inspiration from his professionalism and attitude. With his team spirit and love for the game, Ilkay was an exemplary captain both on and off the pitch, always an important contact for Julian and me. And as such, he will be missed."
Nagelsmann had hoped for Gundogan's continuation, as Toni Kroos had already called it a day. Thomas Muller had also decided to hang up his Germany boots. Manuel Neuer's future is uncertain at the moment. German football director Voeller has hinted that a decision about Neuer's future will be made soon. "There will undoubtedly be a decision by the time of the next nomination, which will be next week," Voeller said on Sport1 on Sunday.
Julian Nagelsmann is now planning to revamp and adapt the squad, keeping an eye on the Nations League and qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Ilkay Gundogan was anticipated to maintain a significant role - much like he did during the home Euro.
Gundogan's Debut in 2011 - Replaced Lahm
Nagelsmann lauded Gundogan's Euro performance personally. The midfielder also garnered public acclaim. "I was overjoyed that he finally escaped criticism as a national player. He's a silent leader with vast experience. He has a good understanding of a group," Nagelsmann said after the Euro.
Gundogan made his national team debut on October 11, 2011, in Düsseldorf, substituting for captain Philipp Lahm in a 3-1 win over Belgium in a Euro qualifier. He scored 19 goals for Germany. Despite suffering numerous injuries, successful club player Gundogan missed out on the 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil.
Despite Ilkay Gundogan's announcement to retire from international soccer, his impact on the team during the Euros was undeniable. His precise passes and intelligent plays left a lasting impression on the new head coach, Julian Nagelsmann.
Gundogan's debut in 2011, replacing Philipp Lahm during a Euro qualifier, marked the beginning of his successful international career, where he scored a total of 19 goals for Germany.
