Manuel Neuer retires from international football again after Germany’s shock World Cup exit | OneFootball

Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international football for the second time, following the national team's unexpected early exit from the World Cup.

The 40-year-old, who had been persuaded out of retirement just before the tournament, confirmed his decision in television interviews.

Speaking to broadcaster Sportschau, when asked if this was truly the end, he simply replied: "Yes." He further told Magenta TV: "No. It’s very bitter to end it like this."

Germany's campaign concluded with a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, after the teams were locked at 1-1 following extra time.

Julio Enciso put Paraguay in front in the first half before a Kai Havertz header brought Germany level after the interval. Germany thought they have won the game in extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home from a corner, but the goal was controversially ruled out by VAR for a foul on the Paraguay goalkeeper.

Paraguay secured a famous win against Germany (PA)

In the subsequent penalty shootout, Neuer saved Fabian Balbuena’s effort, but it was not enough as misses from Havertz, Nick Woltemade and Tah sealed Germany’s fate.

Neuer had previously retired from international duty after the 2024 European Championship, insisting at the time he would not return. Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann had stepped in as Germany’s number one, playing in six qualification games and pre-tournament friendlies, following injuries to Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen.

Despite initial denials from both the player and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, speculation persisted until Nagelsmann ultimately recalled the Bayern Munich goalkeeper as Germany’s first choice for the World Cup, demoting Baumann. The move ultimately failed to pay dividends as Germany crashed out at the first knockout stage.

Neuer, who debuted for Germany in 2009, was the sole remaining member of the 2014 World Cup-winning squad, having amassed 128 caps for his country.

He is still set to continue in club football after signing a contract extension with Bayern Munich last month.

Neuer joined Bayern in 2011 after impressing at Schalke, and he has gone on to win 13 Bundesliga titles as well as the Champions League on two occasions, alongside lifting the World Cup 12 years ago.