- Ilkay Gündogan announces his retirement from the German national football squad
Julian Nagelsmann is set to name a new captain for the German national football team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The current skipper, Ilkay Gundogan, has opted to hang up his boots for the national team following Germany's disappointing title defense at the recent EURO Championship held at home. Gundogan, aged 33 and boasting 82 international caps to his name, took many by surprise with his decision to step away from the national team.
Gundogan's Exit Statement
On Instagram, Gundogan penned down, "After weeks of deliberation, I've made up my mind to bid farewell to my national team career. Looking back, I'm incredibly proud of the 82 international matches I've played for my beloved home country - a feat I never would have imagined when I first donned the senior team jersey in 2011. My most cherished memory, undoubtedly, is captaining the team at the recent EURO Championship hosted in our own backyard!"
Gundogan will continue his career, currently plying his trade with FC Barcelona. However, there are whispers that he might depart the Spanish giant this summer.
"See you soon," Nagelsmann said after the EURO exit
Initially, Nagelsmann had anticipated that Gundogan could remain on board for the commencement of the Nations League in September post the EURO Championship setback against Spain. "I'm thrilled if he decides to stay. For now, I anticipate his availability," the national coach announced the day after the quarterfinal defeat against Spain. However, Nagelsmann expressed his sentiment on July 3rd that, "Gundogan should make the call himself." True to his words, Gundogan decided otherwise.
Nagelsmann had originally wished for Gundogan's continued presence, given that Toni Kroos had called it quits and Thomas Muller had opted out of the German team. Nagelsmann aimed to breathe new life into the team and tailor it for the Nations League and the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Gundogan was set to be a key player in this revamp – just like during the EURO Championship at home.
DFB Debut 2011 – Replacing Lahm
Nagelsmann had commended Gundogan's performance during the EURO Championship. Gundogan received praise across the board. "I was genuinely pleased that he finally wasn't just subjected to criticism as a national team player. He's a silent leader with vast experience. He has a keen understanding of the group," Nagelsmann stated post the EURO.
Gundogan first graced the German national team on October 11, 2011, in Düsseldorf against Belgium during the EURO Championship qualifiers. Gundogan, who came in as a substitute for captain Philipp Lahm, scored 19 goals for Germany. Despite numerous injuries, Gundogan missed the 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil.
The German Football Association (DFB) will need to find a new captain for the national team, as Ilkay Gundogan has decided to retire from international football. Gundogan, who currently plays for FC Barcelona, had been a key player for Germany, especially during the EURO Championship at home.
