‘He gives the team security’ – Nagelsmann on Neuer’s inclusion in 26-man Germany squad | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer retired from international football in August 2024 but after much deliberation, Bayern Munich’s custodian will be Germany’s No.1 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nagelsmann announced his 26-man squad on Thursday, which included Neuer, who has recorded 11 clean sheets in 36 appearances across all competitions this season.

“He could have said, ‘I’ll play the DFB Pokal final and then it’s family time,’” explained Nagelsmann, who confirmed that the 40-year-old will be his No.1 goalkeeper.

“Everyone knows the aura surrounding Manu,” he added. “He gives the team security. He’s a world class player who has an impact on his own team – and also on the opponent.

“He’s a player who creates special moments and in a tournament like this, you need those.”

How did Oliver Baumann respond?

Heading into the tournament, Oliver Baumann was considered Germany’s No. 1. “We told Oli in March that we had spoken with Manu,” explained Nagelsmann.

“In the end, the decision was a blow for Oli. It’s never good news. When Manu plays, he helps the team but there have also been times when he hasn’t played.

“That can happen to us too. That’s why I expressed my confidence in Oli. Manu has won so many titles, he has an aura, a huge name.

“Of course, Oli wasn’t like, ‘Ah, okay coach, no problem’ – The relationship suffered a bit, of course, when you deliver news like that.”

GGFN | Daniel Pinder