Former Germany defender Mats Hummels has declined an official farewell from the national team for now citing "emotional estrangement" as the reason for his decision. "The last few years have been strange.
Former Germany defender Mats Hummels has declined an official farewell from the national team for now citing "emotional estrangement" as the reason for his decision.
"The last few years have been strange. I haven't actually played for the national team since 2018. I only played once during Euro 2021 and two international friendlies in the United States and Austria," Hummels said in the Copa TS podcast.
The fact that Hummels allowed himself to be honoured by the German Football Federation (DFB) before the World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland last month had to do with DFB sporting director Rudi Völler.
"Rudi is just a great guy. When he called, I said: I'm up for it. Actually, I was firmly convinced that I didn't need it anymore because it had been too long," Hummels said.
Hummels was flattered by the interaction with the fans, there was no glimpse any more of his career.
"There were lots of guys there who I don't really know, who I've never even talked to," Hummels said.
Hummels last played for Germany in November 2023. This summer, he also ended his club career at Roma. The former defender played for Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, winning a total of five Bundesliga titles with both clubs.
Category: General Sports
