Ilkay Gundogan has called it the end of his international career. The FC Barcelona midfielder was the captain of the German team that lost to Spain in the quarter-finals. He played a crucial role for the four-time World Champions. Scored in the second game of the major event against Hungary. He wrote a lengthy post on social media confirming his decision to call it a day after 82 caps with Die Mannschaft.
Gundogan has played 82 games for the national team. He featured in the team for over a decade and scored 19 goals in that period. The announcement comes that Gundogan’s future with the club is also unknown. He is expected to leave Barcelona after one season, however, it is unclear where he will play football in 2024-25.
The 33-year-old midfielder said, “Dear football Germany, After a few weeks of consideration, I have concluded 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 the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championships last summer. 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.”
Ilkay Gundogan’s rifts with FC Barcelona create chaos
Ilkay Gundogan has not informed the club of any offers he may have. However, sources say that he is in communication with his previous team Manchester City to discuss a possible comeback. As stated earlier today, Galatasaray is interested in signing him on a free transfer.
Furthermore, Al Nassr is thought to be pondering a move after Barcelona offered the midfielder his services. Gundogan’s exit would allow Barcelona to register new signing Dani Olmo in La Liga. They may add before the transfer window closes.
