BERLIN: Germany’s Thomas Mueller has called time on his 14-year international career after their European Championship exit, the Bayern Munich forward said on Monday.

The 34-year-old featured in his eighth and last tournament on July 5, in Ger­many’s 2-1 quarter-final defeat by Spain, where he was brought on as a substitute in the 80th minute.

Muller helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup and has the third most appearances for the natio­nal team with 131 caps and 45 goals. He also won the Golden Boot and Young Player Award during the 2010 World Cup.

“It always made me very proud to play for my country. We celebrated together and sometimes shed a tear together,” Muller said in a video 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.”

A late extra-time goal by Spain’s Mikel Merino dashed Germany’s hopes of winning the event at home.

Mueller hinted after the game that he had played his last game for Germany.

Mueller said he would hold talks with national te­a­m coach Julian Nagel­sm­ann and decide whether it was the “sensible option” to step aside in favour of younger players.

Published in Dawn, July 16th, 2024