Volland ends career after 1860 Munich drama

Former German international Kevin Volland is retiring from professional football, opting not to continue with TSV 1860 Munich in the Regionalliga after the club's forced relegation.

"At some point, you have to make a decision that isn't easy for you personally. At some point, a career end is also at the door, as is the case with me," the 33-year-old striker said in a personal message to fans.

Volland, who played for Hoffenheim, Bayer Leverkusen, AS Monaco, and Union Berlin after his youth career at 1860, returned to the club in 2025. However, TSV 1860 Munich, who were favorites to be promoted to the second division, were relegated to the fourth tier due to financial issues and a dispute with investor Hasan Ismaik.

"I imagined it differently," Volland admitted, but he expressed gratitude for his 16-year career. "Football has given me so many beautiful, great moments. I am eternally grateful for that. Now a new chapter in my life begins, somehow also a new challenge. I want to get a taste of amateur football again and enjoy time with my family and friends."

According to the "Allgäuer Zeitung," Volland will play for Bezirksliga club FC Thalhofen in Marktoberdorf alongside his brother Robin.