Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has confirmed he will retire from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending one of the most legendary careers in modern football.The 40-year-old, a key figure in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph, made the announcement during a press conference, stating that the tournament would mark his final appearance for the national team.Neuer is currently in his fifth consecutive World Cup as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper, a remarkable return after initially walking away from international football following Euro 2024, where Germany were knocked out in the quarter-finals on home soil.
“It was good”: Neuer reflects on comeback and retirement decision
Explaining his return to the national team, Neuer admitted that his decision to retire in 2024 was carefully considered.“I stepped into 2024 for a good reason after a good home Euro. It was the right decision for me. I felt good,” Neuer said, as reported by Reuters.He also revealed that continuing with another cycle would be too much of a physical and mental burden for him.“It would be too much of a sporting burden for me (to continue playing for the national team) for the last two years,” he added.Confirming his retirement schedule, Neuer was clear about the road ahead.“For me, it’s clear that this is my last tournament. I don’t plan to be there in two years at the next Euro. In the last few days I’ve been dealing with the fact that these are the last games for Germany. But I want to look forward to all the games, not the farewell jerseys.”
The comeback under Nagelsmann and the role of the World Cup
Neuer’s inclusion in the World Cup squad surprised many, as coach Julian Nagelsmann had initially named Oliver Baumann as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper. However, an impressive run of form with Bayern Munich saw Neuer withdraw for the tournament.He returned in style during Germany’s first Group E match, helping his team to a convincing 7-1 win over Curacao.Neuer also emphasized unity within the squad despite the selection debate.“We work together with Oliver. We support each other and train for the team. After we got together, we talked about things and talked about how it came about (with my return),” he said.Germany next face Ivory Coast in their second Group E match in Toronto on June 20. The game is expected to be a crucial step in their bid to qualify for the knockout stages after their dominant first win.
