Ballack calls farewell match offer a 'farce'

When on Thursday Germany coach Joachim Loew announced that he wouldn't call on Michael Ballack any more, he said it was the end of an era, also saying that in their interactions Ballack understood that there are younger players now who are better then him.

In a statement a disappointed Ballack said, "I found out yesterday, while on holiday, through an announcement that the national coach does not plan with me any more. The style and content of the statement are unfortunately exactly like the way he treated me since my serious injury last summer."

On why he doesn't want to play a final international Ballack said, "To call a friendly match that was arranged long ago a farewell match is a farce. I know I owe my fans this match but I cannot accept the offer."

Ballack added, "The style and content of this piece of news surprised and disappointed me because it does not in any way reflect what the coach told me. If now they say that I and my role were treated openly and with honesty then that is hypocritical."

It sounds Michael Ballack and Joachim Loew spoke to each other, but it wasn't as cordial as the German national coach has told the public. From Ballack's reaction it sounds rather that he felt not have to been treated properly and told honestly what the situation was. It seems he still expected to make a full comeback.