Three players that could join Kroos in retiring from Germany

Every elimination from a major tournament usually leads to significant changes in national teams. It appears that Germany will not be able overcome their crushing defeat to England without some important structural adjustments to the squad. With the arrival of Hansi Flick confirmed some months back, he could well carry out a much needed face-lift of the German squad, with a number of sacrificial lambs having to make way.

Toni Kroos was the first name to appear among German press. They believe it's practically a done deal that the Real Madrid player will decide to stop representing his country, and will instead focus on his club until the end of his career.

His absence, however, won't be the only one. 'Bild' highlighted the names of Ilkay Gundogan, Thomas Muller and Mats Hummels. The last two were part of Low's last-minute solution to try and bring his side back to the glory days, but the gamble didn't quite pay off.

Despite Muller having been a vital component of Hansi Flick's Bayern Munich, it looks unlikely that the future of the German national team will include a veteran such as him. With Hummels there are even fewer doubts, given that Bayern were happy to let him go back to Dortmund and Flick certainly didn't miss him during his time at the club.

Lastly, Gundogan appears to have ended his cycle in the national team. He was unable to replicate his fine form at club level at Manchester City with 'Die Mannschaft', a flaw which has been a constant throughout his entire career. Germany have their minds made up - now is the time for change.