Former Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has announced his retirement from international football.
Boateng, who is one of the most decorated players in Germany, has won major titles at the club and international level.
In a statement on Friday, Boateng stated that football has given him a lot.
“I played for a long time, for big clubs and my country. I’ve learnt, won, lost and grown as a result,” Boateng said in the 65-second clip.
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“Football has given me a lot, now it’s time to move on. Not because I have to, but because I’m ready. I’m grateful for everything: the teams, the fans, the people who have carried me.
“And especially for my family, my children. They were always there for me.”
Boateng began his professional career at Hertha Berlin before moving to Hamburg, Manchester City and then Bayern in 2011, where he enjoyed his most successful period.
His departure brings to a close one of German football’s most decorated yet controversial modern careers.