Ilkay Gundogan has made a shock announcement on social media amid reports of a return to former club Manchester City.
Reports today have suggested that Gundogan could be set to return to Manchester City just over 12 months after leaving the Premier League club as a free agent and joining Barcelona last summer .
The German spent seven years with City, making 188 appearances in all competitions and scoring 44 goals.
And now the midfielder has finally broken his silence, making a shocking announcement on social media.
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In a statement on X, the midfielder wrote: "Dear football Germany,
"After a few weeks of consideration, I have come to the conclusion 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 definitely the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championships last summer! After all these years, we finally managed to make the nation proud again - I'm very happy that I was able to play a part in that.
"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.
"I will definitely continue to be a fan of this national team and I really hope that we can continue the upward trend together - and then there is nothing to stop us from being one of the closest contenders for the title at the 2026 World Cup. We have a fantastic coach, a really strong team and a great team spirit.
"Thanks to all the fans, staff, coaches and teammates who have accompanied me on this journey. It was an honor!
"Your Ilkay."
During his 16-year career, Gundogan has made 82 appearances for the German national team, scoring 19 goals.
Most recently, the midfielder captained his national team during the 2024 European Championships, which took place in Germany this summer.
The hosts were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Spain, who went on to win the tournament.
Topics: Manchester City, Ilkay Gundogan, Premier League, Barcelona, Germany, Football
Ben McCrum