Babbel emphasizes: Neuer comeback for the World Cup would be „total humbug“ | OneFootball

The goalkeeper debate in the German national team is flaring up again, triggered by the injury to Marc-André ter Stegen and the associated question of the number one. Markus Babbel has clear words on the subject and takes a clear stance on Manuel Neuer.

In an interview with ran, the former Bayern professional spoke clearly about the renewed debate surrounding a possible DFB comeback for Manuel Neuer. Babbel made it unmistakably clear that there is no way back for him. „I hope that even the last person has now understood that Manuel Neuer is not coming back, because he made the decision to end his career in the national team out of full awareness,“ explained the 53-year-old. Anything else is „total nonsense“ for him.

In Babbel’s opinion, the situation is clear, regardless of the current personnel situation in the DFB goal. „You have to accept that,“ emphasized the former international and made it clear that there is no reason to question a completed decision again. Rather, the focus must be on the goalkeepers currently available.

Babbel clearly backs Baumann

photo: IMAGO

Instead of nostalgic ruminations, Babbel pleads for continuity. The former centre-back expressly praised Oliver Baumann and his performances in the national jersey. „Baumann has shown a top performance in all international matches and has been an absolute back-up,“ said Babbel. Even possible mistakes would not change that: „Even if he makes a mistake on Sunday, which I don’t believe, Baumann is the number one in Germany for me.“

Babbel particularly emphasized the charisma and reliability of the Hoffenheim keeper: „As a central defender, I would have wished in the past to have a goalkeeper at the back with this charisma, confidence and reliability,“ he explained. For Babbel, the hierarchy is thus clearly established – regardless of Neuer’s name.

Sepp Maier had previously made similar comments. The Bayern legend was annoyed by the recurring speculation. „The topic is a bit annoying. Whenever something happens, people immediately call for Manu,“ said Maier. In his view, the debate doesn’t help anyone either: „It doesn’t help the current team and development.“

Maier also questioned why the issue was being discussed again at all. „Have we heard anything from the national team coach? No. Stop speculating about a return again and again,“ demanded the 1974 world champion. For him, it was clear that Neuer was no longer part of the plans and that the national team needed peace and quiet.