The football community has been buzzing with reactions to Roma defender Mats Hummels’ recent announcement of his retirement at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Hummels, a decorated player with an impressive 18-year career, shared the news via social media on Friday afternoon.

Hummels’ accolades include five Bundesliga titles, three DFB Pokal trophies, six German Supercup victories, two Champions League final appearances, and most notably, the 2014 World Cup triumph with Germany.

Outpouring of Support from Fellow Players

Numerous football stars, both past and present teammates, have taken to social media to express their admiration and well-wishes for the 36-year-old defender.

Roma teammate Paulo Dybala praised Hummels, stating “What a player,” while team captain Lorenzo Pellegrini described him as a “legend, both as a player and as a man.” Gianluca Mancini dubbed Hummels a “professor” of the game.

Other Roma players, including Mile Svilar, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Nicola Zalewski, echoed similar sentiments, with “legend” being a recurring theme in their messages.

Former Borussia Dortmund colleagues also chimed in. Julian Brandt expressed, “It was my honor,” while Nico Schlotterbeck referred to Hummels as “Teacher.” Kevin Groβkreutz offered a heartfelt “Thank you, my friend.”

The football world at large joined in the tribute, with messages from James Rodriguez, Lukas Podolski, and even Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk, who ‘applauded’ Hummels in the comments section.

Institutional Recognition

Both AS Roma and Borussia Dortmund, clubs integral to Hummels’ career, have published dedicated posts celebrating his stellar career. Additionally, organizations such as FIFA, the Bundesliga, Sky Sport, DAZN, and Adidas have acknowledged Hummels’ significant contributions to football.

As Mats Hummels prepares to hang up his boots, the overwhelming response from the football community serves as a testament to his impact both on and off the pitch, cementing his status as a true legend of the game.