Bastian Schweinster is the latest experienced and respected German player to retire from international football, as the midfielder announced the end of his days with die Mannschaft.
The Germany captain revealed on social media that he’ll no longer play for the national side, ending his international career after earning 120 caps with the four-time World Cup winners.
Making his debut in June 2004, the 31-year-old went on to feature in four European Championships (2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016) and three World Cups (2006, 2010, and 2014).
The Manchester United ace’s last World Cup tournament saw him get his hands on the trophy, as Joachim Low’s side beat out all the competition to lift the title ahead of eventual runners-up Argentina.
"I just asked the national team coach to not consider me for future call-ups for the German national team, because I want to end my international career. My thanks go out to the fans, the team, the DFB [German FA], and the coaches and staff around the German national team.
Vielen Dank an alle für die tolle Zeit! #DieMannschaft pic.twitter.com/kNrLa7eDvE
— Basti Schweinsteiger (@BSchweinsteiger) July 29, 2016
"In 120 international matches I was allowed to play for my country and experience moments of incredible joy and success.
"Jogi Low knew how much the Euro 2016 in France meant to me, because I wanted to do everything in my power to win the title, which we haven't been able to bring back to Germany since 1996. It wasn't to be and I had to accept that.
"By winning the World Cup in 2014 we created something historical and emotional, which cannot be repeated in my career. Which is why drawing a line is now the reasonable and right thing to do. I wish the national team all the best for the qualification and the World Cup in 2018.
"With my decision I leave the national team, which was always a precious family to me. I hope that this connection will stay intact in another form.
"To my fans I want to say: 'It was an honour for me to play for you. Thank you for everything that I could experience with you!'"
Schweinsteiger's last game for Germany before announcing his retirement was the semi-final clash with France in UEFA Euro 2016. The game saw the former Bayern Munich ace become the player with the most international major tournament games in history with 38 appearances.
Bastian made the European Championship despite a lack of fitness, but was limited to only four substitute appearances. He will now hand over the captain's armband that he inherited from Philipp Lahm in 2014.
