Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
4h ago

Hummels Says He Felt Estranged From Germany Team, Accepted Farewell After Völler’s Call

He describes an emotional disconnect after scarce appearances since 2018, crediting a personal invitation for changing his mind.

Hummels bei seiner Verabschiedung im September
Image
Image

Overview

  • In the Copa TS podcast, the 2014 World Cup winner called the past few years "weird" and spoke of "emotional estrangement" from the national side.
  • He said he initially declined a formal DFB send-off but agreed after a phone call from sporting director Rudi Völler.
  • Germany honored him on 7 September in Cologne before the World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland, presenting a framed collage as fans unveiled a "Danke, Mats" display.
  • Hummels said the choreography and small interactions with supporters moved him, even as his own DFB past felt remote.
  • His last cap came in November 2023, bringing him to 78 appearances for Germany, and he retired from club football after a season at AS Roma following his 2024 exit from Borussia Dortmund.