Philippine winger announces retirement from national team duty after qualifying for the semifinals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup.
“As this beautiful new chapter begins in our lives, another comes to and end,”
This was Patrick Reichelt’s message as he announced his retirement from the Philippine men’s national football team on Sunday — just a day after the Philippines qualified for the semifinals of the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup.
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Heading towards a new stage in his life, with a child on the way, Reichelt made the difficult decision to hang up his boots for good.
“With a very heavy heart, I’m leaving the camp today after our successful semi-final qualification. This is a decision I discussed with the management and coaching staff beforehand, and I’m grateful for their full support.” Reichelt wrote on social media.
“My wife and I are expecting our first child in just a few days, and it’s time for me to fly home and give my undivided attention to our growing family. As this beautiful new chapter begins in our lives, another comes to an end.”
Reichelt first began his journey with the national team as early as 2012, having 93 caps for flag and country.
In his appearances, he scored 16 goals — his most recent came during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Vietnam last June, where the Filipinos lost, 2-3.
Posting a photo with the team, Reichelt recalled his journey and credited his career as a life-defining experience.
“This decision was never going to be easy, but I always knew the day would come. For nearly 13 years, this team has been my family. I owe so much of my life to this experience. We’ve shared Christmases, birthdays, and even quarantines together. I’ve literally grown up with this national team, and you’ve been a huge part of shaping me into the man I am today," said the 36-year-old.
“Representing the Philippines as a national team player has been the greatest honor of my professional career. I hope, along the way, I was able to inspire fans, friends, and especially my teammates to understand what it truly means to represent this amazing team and the people of our country. I will treasure this journey and its memories forever.” he added.
Current and formal national team players commended Reichelt for his career, including Stephan Schrock, Neil Etheridge, and naturalized booter Bienve Marañon.
The Philippines thus begins their new era without Reichelt on December 27, Friday, in the semifinals against Thailand at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.