Veteran defender Mats Hummels has announced that the 2024-25 season will mark the conclusion of his professional playing career.
The 36-year-old, who currently plays for Roma, shared the news via social media that he will be bringing to a close a storied career that saw him win silverware at both club and international levels.
Hummels’ career includes stints with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, where he claimed a number domestic honours.
He was also a key figure in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad, starting in the final and beating Argentina.
After joining Roma on a free transfer last summer, Hummels has made 18 appearances for the Serie A side so far, finding the net once.
In an emotional farewell post, the centre-back reflected on the journey that shaped his career: “It takes a lot, just having the right coaches at the right time and being fit at the right time, having the right team-mates at the right time,” he wrote.
“I’ve seen so many guys, so many coaches, who I owe a lot to. Without them, my whole career would never have gotten off the ground or reached this level.
“I will miss it. I will miss it terribly.”
Throughout his career, Hummels collected 15 major trophies, including five Bundesliga titles. He also came close to Champions League glory twice, finishing as a runner-up with Borussia Dortmund.
His announcement was accompanied by a simple yet powerful message posted on X (formerly Twitter): “THE END. Was für eine Reise! Danke, Grazie, Thank you.”
