Kimmich Reveals All! Here’s How Manuel Neuer’s DFB Comeback Unfolded | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer’s return to the German national team was one of the biggest surprises leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Now, for the first time, Joshua Kimmich has spoken openly about how the secret effort to bring him back unfolded—and what role he played in it.

For months, there had been speculation about whether Manuel Neuer would ever play for the German national team again. After the 2014 World Cup champion announced his retirement following the 2024 European Championship on home soil, the DFB chapter seemed to be over.

But shortly before the 2026 World Cup, there was a spectacular turnaround.

As Joshua Kimmich has now revealed in an interview with BILD, he was indeed involved in the discussions that ultimately led to the Bayern captain’s return.

“I spoke with Manu once or twice beforehand about the possibility. Then I also spoke with the coach,” explained the DFB captain.

At the same time, Kimmich emphasized that his influence on the decision had been limited. Rather, the discussions were part of a longer process that had dragged on for several months.

The Real Madrid games became the turning point

For a long time, Neuer’s return was considered uncertain. Above all, the 40-year-old’s physical condition played a decisive role. Time and again, the Bayern goalkeeper had to sit out due to injuries in recent years.

“With Manu, it was up in the air for a long time because it was also a physical issue. He had injuries every now and then; he was banged up. I think that’s why this decision took so long for the coach and him, and why communication was difficult,” Kimmich explained.

According to information from BILD , the discussion surrounding Neuer really picked up steam in early April.

At that time, the Bayern captain delivered two outstanding performances in the Champions League quarterfinals against Real Madrid and led Munich to the semifinals.

For many observers, it was clear by this point at the latest that Neuer was still among the best goalkeepers in the world.

The discussion also became more concrete within the national team.

“Around the time of the two Real Madrid games with Bayern, in which Manu was simply incredible, the idea became more concrete,” Kimmich revealed.

Kimmich sees Neuer as an indispensable leader

The current dynamic within the national team is particularly noteworthy.

Neuer served as DFB captain for seven years until his retirement. Today, Kimmich wears the armband, while Neuer has returned as a player.

However, there have never been any conflicts or debates about hierarchy between the two leaders.

“As captain here, I try not to act any differently than I do at Bayern. I have a few values and principles that are important to me. It’s the same with Manu. The armband doesn’t change anything about his demeanor,” the midfielder explained.

Rather, Kimmich sees the World Cup champion’s return as an enormous asset for the entire team.

“We all know Manu; he’s the best goalkeeper in history and is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world. It’s very important to have someone like that on the team.”

Kimmich: Neuer is more than just a goalkeeper

Photo: Getty Images

For Kimmich, Neuer’s value extends far beyond his performance on the field.

The Bayern star made it clear that Germany benefits from his leadership qualities. That’s another reason why his return was so important. “It’s extremely important for us that he brings his leadership qualities to the team and acts like a captain here,” Kimmich emphasized.

Especially in a major tournament, the experience of a World Cup champion can be decisive.

“That helps me and also us as a team. We need as many players as possible who are willing to take on responsibility and contribute to the bigger picture.”

Kimmich’s comments underscore that the Bayern captain’s return is of enormous importance to the German national team—not only on the field but also in the locker room.