Germany striker Thomas Mueller has announced his retirement from international football after 131 national team games and 45 goals. The 35-year-old made the announcement following a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign in which the host nation was eliminated in the quarter-finals. Mueller, who was a key player in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning team, expressed pride in representing his country over the years.
Mueller scored the opening goal in Germany’s historic 7-1 victory over Brazil in the 2014 World Cup semi-final. Reflecting on his international career, Mueller mentioned how playing for the German national team was a dream come true for him. Despite the ups and downs, he cherished the moments of celebration and camaraderie with his teammates. The decision to retire came after Germany’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals.
The experienced forward hinted at retirement following the disappointing Euro 2024 exit. After losing to Spain, Mueller expressed his intention to discuss his future with national team coach Julian Nagelsmann and consider stepping aside to make way for younger players. Mueller’s decision to retire from international football contrasts with the announcement made by teammate Toni Kroos, who retired from football altogether after Euro 2024.
Even though he is retiring from international duty, Mueller will continue to play for Bayern Munich, where he is currently under contract until 2025. He ranks as Germany’s sixth highest goalscorer of all time and has played more games for the national team than all but two players. The only remaining member of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad still involved in the national team set-up is goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
Germany’s early exit from Euro 2024 marked the end of an era for several players, including Mueller and Kroos, who have decided to retire from international football. As the team looks to rebuild and usher in a new generation of talent, the departures of these experienced players will undoubtedly leave a void. Mueller’s impact on the national team’s history is undeniable, and his legacy as one of Germany’s top goalscorers will be remembered for years to come.
