Germany’s Thomas Muller announced his retirement from international football at the conclusion of the European Championship (Euro) 2024 which Spain won by beating England in the final in Berlin.
Muller, who represented Germany in 131 matches and bagged 45 goals, decided to quit international football as he wants to keep his focus on Bayern Munich for the rest of his career.
Muller won the 2014 FIFA World Cup by beating Argentina in the final in Brazil where Mario Gotze scored the winner in the additional minutes.
"After 131 national team games and 45 goals, I am saying goodbye," Muller said in a video statement announcing his decision.
"I was always proud to represent my country and I want to thank everyone,” he said. “I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the team on the way to the 2026 World Cup as a fan but no longer as a player on the pitch."
Muller has the third most appearances (131) for Germany and is only behind Lothar Matthaus (150) and Miroslav Klose (137). He also scored 10 goals at the World Cup in four different editions.
Germany’s head coach Julien Nagelsmann thanked Muller for his services to the German national team and expressed his gratitude that he got to work with a player of such quality at club as well as national level.
"I am grateful that I was able to accompany Thomas for part of his career, with the national team and at FC Bayern," Nagelsmann said. "It was a pleasure to work with him.
"Thomas is a passionate professional who is just as passionate about football as he was on the first day. He has enriched our European Championship team not only with his sporting qualities, but also as a leader, a role model, and a figure to identify with. I saw Thomas as a very intelligent player — football-wise, emotionally and fundamentally.
"As much as I regret that he will no longer be with us, I have great hope that Thomas will continue to shape German football in the future — as a player for FC Bayern and in other roles in the future. We will miss him very much in the national team."
