After Ilkay Gündogan’s withdrawal from the German national team, national coach Julian Nagelsmann must choose a new captain with an eye on the 2026 World Cup.
The 33-year-old Gündogan, who was appointed captain by Nagelsmann’s predecessor Hansi Flick about a year ago, led the DFB selection a total of 19 times, most recently in the European Championship defeat to Spain. He was the first national team captain with a migrant background.
The record captain is Lothar Matthäus, who led the national team with the armband in 75 of his 150 international matches, followed by Manuel Neuer with 60 captaincy appearances. The 38-year-old Neuer could now become captain again. But it is unclear whether the 124-time national player will even continue his DFB career after the home European Championship.
A decision on whether and how things will continue with Germany’s record goalkeeper is expected before national coach Nagelsmann announces the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Hungary and the Netherlands next week.
Successor wanted – Kimmich favorite
Joshua Kimmich would be an obvious solution from the European Championship squad. The 29-year-old Bayern professional was already one of Gündogan’s deputies, is a regular player and has captained the DFB team eight times in his 91 international matches. A promotion of defensive leader Antonio Rüdiger (31) from Real Madrid would also be conceivable.
Ilkay Gündogan at the European Championship quarter-final Spain – Germany. picture alliance / Matthias Koch | Matthias Koch
Ilkay Gündogan at the European Championship quarter-final Spain – Germany.
Meanwhile, Gündogan’s departure from FC Barcelona also seems to be getting closer and closer. As Sky reports, the Barça management has clearly informed the midfielder that he is to leave during this transfer window. However, the latest statements by coach Hansi Flick do not suggest this.
No support from Flick
The Madrid-based trade magazine “AS” reported that Flick, who knows Gündogan well from their time together in the DFB team, does not see him as a regular player. The former national coach reportedly told sporting director Deco that Gündogan does not fit into his game concept.
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Gündogan was absent from the 2-1 opening win against FC Valencia last Saturday. According to Flick, he had problems with a cut. Flick also said after the game that he had the feeling that Gündogan would stay.
Will Gündogan soon be on the field with Ronaldo?
However, according to the Catalan trade newspaper “Sport”, the traditional Spanish club wants to try to “get some money for the transfer of Gündogan”. The Arabic portal “365scores” reported that the Catalans have offered Gündogan to the Cristiano Ronaldo club Al-Nassr.
Gündogan’s agent and uncle Ilhan had stated on August 8 that although there was interest from some clubs, the player wanted to stay in Barcelona. The Gelsenkirchen native’s contract in Barcelona runs until summer 2026, after he only came from Manchester City on a free transfer in 2023.
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