News (engl.)

Lina Magull has announced her retirement from international football. The 30-year-old earned 77 caps for the Germany women's national team, scoring 22 goals in the process.

In a statement shared on social media, Magull wrote: "After careful consideration, I have decided to end my journey with the national team. Saying these words is incredibly difficult for me – it means saying goodbye to a chapter that has shaped my life in so many ways, filled with intense highs, challenges, but also unforgettable and magical moments. (…) Now, the moment has come for me to let go with pride, deep gratitude and a heart full of beautiful memories. I look forward to the future of women's football in Germany, to all the talented players who will continue on this path and write their own stories. For me, my new chapter will continue in Italy – with full passion for my club, under excellent surroundings, and, most importantly, the joy of the game that has always been with me."

The Dortmund native can look back on a long, successful career with Germany. This journey saw Magull take part in the U17 World Cup in Trinidad & Tobago, two U17 European Championships in Switzerland, the U19 EUROs in Wales and two U20 World Cups. She was part of the Germany U20 squad that reached the final of the 2012 U20 World Cup in Japan, where they earned a silver medal following a 1-0 defeat against the USA. Two years later, Germany were once again in the final of the U20 World Cup in Canada. A 1-0 win (a.e.t.) in the final against Nigeria saw Magull and her teammates lift the trophy. During this time, Magull was able to develop into a key player, which would allow her to make the leap into the senior side.

Olympic champion and runners-up at the EUROs

Magull made her debut for Germany's senior team on 22nd October 2015 in a EURO qualifier against Russia. The midfielder was called up to take part in several major tournaments with the side, including the European Championships in the Netherlands in 2017 and in England in 2022, as well as the World Cup in France in 2019 and in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Magull took part in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro as one of the team's alternates, with Germany winning the gold medal. One of the highlights of her career was the 2022 EUROs in England, where Germany progressed to the the final at Wembley, where they came up against the hosts. Despite a narrow defeat, Magull was able to put in an impressive performance that included scoring Germany's only goal of the game.

Head coach Christian Wück said: "Lina informed me about her decision during a meeting. I can understand her reasoning. She has been a key figure within the Germany team for many years and her experience, as well as her tactical nous and creative style of play have played a large part in the team's success during this time. I wish her all the best, not only with her club career but for her personal life as well."  

Official farewell in early April in Wolfsburg

Nia Künzer, DFB sporting director, said: "Lina is a very special footballer with excellent technical ability and an intelligent and creative style of play, in addition to having a very friendly and welcoming demeanour. I always enjoyed watching her play for the national team and she was able to use her skills to benefit the team. I will never forget her performance in the 2022 EURO final at Wembley, where she was able to leave her mark on the pitch with her skills and determination. She is interested in many different things, and has been furthering her interests off the pitch as well while making sure that her worldview extends beyond the world of football. I wish her all the best for her club career and for her personal life."

Magull will receive an official farewell ahead of Germany's UEFA Women's Nations League fixture against Scotland in Wolfsburg on 8th April (17:45 CEST).