Manuel Neuer rules out Germany return, says he can only smile at talk | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer has reiterated he will not end his international retirement despite renewed talk of a Germany comeback.

"Those are, of course, nice words, but he knows my decision very well. So I can’t help but smile a little," he told Bild after Bayern’s 2-0 DFB-Pokal win over RB Leipzig on Wednesday. Asked if his decision is final, he replied "yes".

With Marc-André ter Stegen struggling with ongoing injuries, there has been speculation the 39-year-old could return. Bayern president Herbert Hainer had voiced support for the idea, which Neuer has dismissed again.

As things stand, Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann looks in line to be Germany’s first-choice at the World Cup, and Neuer expressed full confidence in the 35-year-old.

"He is now number one and is doing his job very well. Overall, he has shown very good performances, and I of course wish him all the best and keep my fingers crossed for him."

Source: BuLi News