Annike Krahn and Melanie Behringer have both announced their retirements from Germany national team. Both were members of the side who just claimed gold in Rio, having previously won the World Cup in 2007 and the European Championship in 2009 and 2013. They also featured in the 2008 Olympic team, earning bronze, while having been a part of the side who won the U19 World Cup in 2004, along with coach Silvia Neid.
“What better way is there to retire than as an Olympic champion?” said Krahn, 31. “I have had some incredible highs in my national career, and a few lows, but I will always be grateful for the time and experiences I have had. For me, it is something very special. Saskia (Bartusiak), Mel and I have come a long way together, and now it is time to give a chance to the younger generation. Mel and I started together in the U19 squad, and have been practically hand-in-hand through our time in the national setups. I will never forget the experiences I have had, and that we are retiring as Olympic champions is perfect. Everything has to end eventually, and I cannot think of a better time to draw a line under things.” Krahn made her international debut on January 28th 2005, and is ending on 137 caps.
On Krahn, Neid said “the relationship with Annike was always very mutually trusting and she will be a big loss to the side. She had an important role within the team and she always performed reliably. She has very much deserved all of her 137 caps, and her status as the second-highest appearance maker among active players. She was always a guide for the younger players in the team, and an important figure off the pitch.”
Behringer: “It was a gift to have so much success”
Melanie Behringer also began her international career on 28th January 2005. Now 30, she finishes with 123 international appearances. Alongside her Olympic medal, she is a two-time champion of Europe, World champion at senior and U19 levels, and an Olympic bronze medallist. Her total of five goals in Rio made her the tournament's highest goalscorer in Rio.
“I have worn the shirt for than 11 years and it gives me great pride to say that. It was a gift to have so much success, and the Olympic medal completes my collection as a Germany international,” said Behringer. “I would like to thank everyone who made it possible for me to enjoy my journey with the national team so much and gave me support along the way: my friends, my family, the whole training staff of the national team and last but by no means least, my wonderful fans. A special thanks, too, to the players! It was a fantastic time, and one I will never forget.”
Neid, saying goodbye to another member of the team after the retirements of Krahn and captain Bartusiak, continued “Melanie Behringer was a commanding presence at the Olympics. For me, she was player of the tournament, and she was a huge factor in our winning gold. She showed herself to be a real team player and a fantastic servant to the team. She would never let a setback get her down and would always fight back in difficult moments. I wish both players the very best for the future.”
Krahn and Behringer will continue their respective club careers at Bayer 04 Leverkusen Bayern Munich, respectively.