Ex-Dortmund and Stuttgart goalkeeper announces retirement

Former Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart goalkeeper Mitchell Langerak has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36.

The Australian shot-stopper shared the news with fans via Instagram, reflecting emotionally on the journey that shaped his career.

“I’ve given absolutely everything I have, sacrificed so much, and pushed my body to its limits to achieve what I have and reach where I am today,” he wrote.”

Langerak’s professional career began in Europe when he joined Borussia Dortmund in 2010. Over five seasons with die Schwarzgelben, he served primarily as a backup to Roman Weidenfeller but played his part in a golden era for the club. 

During his time at Dortmund, he won two Bundesliga titles and lifted the DFB-Pokal.

In 2015, he moved to VfB Stuttgart, where he spent two seasons, helping the Swabians earn promotion back to the Bundesliga. After his stint in Germany, Langerak ventured to Japan, signing with Nagoya Grampus in 2018. There, he became a fan favourite and an integral part of the team for nearly seven years.

His time in Japan came to an emotional close in January 2025, after which he returned to Australia to play for his boyhood club, Melbourne Victory.