Ilkay Gündogan announces his departure from the national squad
Julian Nagelsmann, taking over as the new head coach for the national football team, will be tasked with appointing a new team captain leading up to the 2026 World Cup. The previous captain, Ilkay Gündogan, has surprisingly chosen to step down from the DFB team, following Germany's failure to secure the title during the home European Championship. At 33 years old and having played 82 international matches for Germany, Gündogan made the unexpected decision to call it quits with the national team.
On Instagram, Gündogan shared his thoughts: "After some deliberation, I've come to realize that it's time to conclude my national team career. I am incredibly proud of representing my homeland in 82 international matches - a feat I never would've imagined when I first played for the A-team back in 2011," he wrote. "My career highlight undoubtedly was being named captain during our home EM last summer!"
Barcelona's future uncertain
Gündogan will continue his professional career, currently representing FC Barcelona. However, there are murmurs about his potential departure from the Spanish top club this summer.
Following Germany's exit at the hands of Spain in the European Championship quarterfinals, Nagelsmann had believed he could still rely on Gündogan for the start of the Nations League in September. "Certainly, I'm pleased if he continues playing. At this point, I assume he'll still be available," Nagelsmann commented the following day. However, Nagelsmann reiterated in early July that the decision should be Gündogan's own to make and announce accordingly. His decision, however, took a different turn.
Nagelsmann had also considered Gündogan as an important addition due to the pending retirement from professional football of Toni Kroos. Earlier this year, Kroos announced his retirement after the European Championship. Thomas Müller also decided to abandon the national team. Nagelsmann aims to breathe new life into the squad in preparation for the Nations League and the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Gündogan had a crucial role to play in this, much like during the European Championship at home.
"Crucial moment of recognition"
Even Nagelsmann praised Gündogan for his strong performance during the European Championship. Moreover, the midfielder enjoyed widespread recognition from the public. "I was tremendously delighted when he experienced the wave of support for the first time as a national team player. He is a quiet leader with a wealth of experience. He has a keen understanding of a group," Nagelsmann stated post-EM.
Gündogan made his national team debut on October 11, 2011, in Duesseldorf, coming on as a substitute for then-captain Philipp Lahm during a 3-1 win against Belgium in an EM qualifier. Gündogan scored 19 goals for Germany. Despite numerous injuries, Gündogan also missed the 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil due to his health issues.
Nagelsmann will need to find a new team captain for the national football team, as Gündogan's departure leaves a void. Despite having a strong performance during the European Championship, Gündogan announced his retirement from the German national team.
