July 16 – Thomas Mueller has retired from the German national team after the side exited Euro 2024 on home soil in the last eight bringing to a close his 14-year international career.
He came on as a substitute against Spain in the quarter-finals in the 80th minute. At the age of 34, Mueller featured in his eighth major tournament. On Monday, the player confirmed that he will hang up his boots for Germany.
“It always made me very proud to play for my country. We celebrated together and sometimes shed a tear together,” said Muller in a video posted on social media.
“When I had the privilege of making my first international appearance, I would never have dreamed of all this. I would like to say thank you to all the fans and my Germany teammates for their support over the years. Take the enthusiasm and joy of this year’s Euros with you.”
Mueller debuted for Germany in 2010 and four years later won the World Cup in Brazil. The Germans defeated the hosts 7-1 in the semi-final before edging Argentina 1-0 in the final after extra time.
Famous for his unconventional style and exploitation of space on the pitch, the Bayern Munich player has 131 caps and 45 goals for his national team.
On home soil, Mueller and Germany had hoped to craft a fairy tale at Euro 2024 after the country’s disappointing performances at the last three major finals, but they departed the tournament following a last-eight defeat to eventual champions Spain.
“Nobody is like Thomas Muller. His value for German football cannot be overestimated,” said German national team chief Rudi Voeller. ”Regardless of whether he’s been with Bayern or the national team for all these years, Thomas has always given every team a face, an exemplary character and a top striker.”
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