Ilkay Gundogan confirms major career plans amid Manchester City transfer interest in Barcelona star

Ilkay Gundogan has announced his retirement from international football, amid his uncertain future at club level.

The midfielder played every game for Germany at Euro 2024, captaining the country to a quarter-final exit by eventual champions Spain. In total, Gundogan earned 82 caps after making his debut in 2011, but missed Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph due to injury.

On Monday, the 33-year-old confirmed via a statement on social media that he has called time on his international career.

“After a few weeks of consideration, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career,” Gundogan wrote.

“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!”

Gundogan’s social media post comes amid mounting speculation surrounding his future. Reports in Spain have indicated Barcelona are keen to move the ex-Borussia Dortmund star on, while former club Manchester City are open to his return.

Gundogan left the Premier League champions just over a year ago and made 51 appearances for the Catalan club last season. But he could complete a sensational move back to City before next week’s transfer deadline, 14 months on from guiding the club to just a second treble in the history of English football.

Pep Guardiola admitted last week that he would consider adding to his midfield options if a suitable option became available, a criteria Gundogan would certainly match.