GERMANY IN GOOD HANDS, SAYS GUNDOGAN

‘Tired’ captain retires, sees team as one of the main contenders at 2026 World Cup

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Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan announced his retirement from international football on Aug 19 after leading his country at Euro 2024, citing "a certain tiredness" both physically and mentally.

"After a few weeks of reflection, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career," the Barcelona midfielder, better known for his time playing under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, wrote on social media.

"I look back with great pride on 82 international matches for my home country a number that I could never have dreamt of when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011."

His retirement follows those of veterans Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller, who are both 34. Kroos hung up his boots for good after Euro 2024, while Muller called time on his Germany career in July.

Gundogan, who also turns 34 in October, skippered the Germany team who reached the Euro 2024 quarter-finals before losing to eventual champions Spain after extra time.