Thomas Muller, the veteran striker for Germany, announced his retirement from international football on Monday at the age of 34. His final appearance for the national team was during Euro 2024, hosted on home soil.
Muller’s illustrious international career spanned over 14 years, during which he earned 131 caps, making him the third-most capped player in Germany’s history after Lothar Matthaus (150) and Miroslav Klose (137). His 45 goals for the national team tie him with Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for the sixth-highest goal scorer in German history.
Muller made his international debut in a match against Argentina in March 2010. He quickly rose to prominence by scoring his first international goal against Australia during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. His exceptional performance earned him the Golden Boot, with five goals, and the FIFA Young Player Award at the tournament.
In the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Muller once again showcased his talent by netting five goals, contributing significantly to Germany securing their fourth World Cup title.
His final bow came during Euro 2024 when he was substituted in the 80th minute against Spain in the quarterfinals on July 5. The match marked the end of an era for one of Germany’s most influential players.
“Nobody is like Thomas Muller,” said Rudi Voller, the director of the German national team. “His value for German football cannot be overestimated. Whether in all his years at FC Bayern or with the national team – with Thomas, every team has always had a face, an exemplary character, in addition to a top striker. His game is unorthodox, intuitive, unpredictable, and that is exactly why it is successful.”
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann echoed these sentiments: “I am grateful that I was able to accompany Thomas for part of his career, with the national team and at FC Bayern. 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.”
Muller’s current contract with FC Bayern Munich runs until 2025, leaving fans eager to see how he will continue to impact the game at the club level.
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Thomas Muller of Germany retires from international football
cgtn.com
