Nagelsmann announces decision: How the Neuer rehab is going | OneFootball

Concerns about Manuel Neuer are diminishing. The FC Bayern captain is apparently making good progress following his calf injury and is right on schedule for the 2026 World Cup

After Neuer missed the DFB Cup final against VfB Stuttgart, the 40-year-old is currently continuing his rehab program with the German national team. Although the Bayern keeper is not yet fully fit, the latest statements from national coach Julian Nagelsmann give hope

At the press conference ahead of the test match against Finland, the DFB coach gave a positive update on his goalkeeper’s state of health: „He was running faster today, he looks good, there are no problems, so he’s right on target, everything is going well,“ explained Nagelsmann

Finland game still too early for Neuer

However, Neuer will still not be an option for Sunday evening’s friendly against Finland. The national coach does not want to take any unnecessary risks with the Bayern captain and will instead rely on Oliver Baumann in goal

The decision is purely a precautionary measure and Nagelsmann will continue to monitor how Neuer reacts to the increasing strain over the coming days

Whether the veteran will be ready to return for the second World Cup test against the USA will be decided at short notice. „We will decide one or two days beforehand whether it makes sense,“ explained Nagelsmann

World Cup opener remains the big goal

photo: IMAGO

The clear roadmap is for Neuer to be back between the posts by the start of the World Cup on 14 June against Curaçao at the latest. According to the DFB, there are currently no signs that could jeopardize this goal

The positive news is also important for FC Bayern. After several minor injuries at the end of the season, Neuer should use the summer break to get back to top physical condition

Despite his extended break from the national team, the 2014 World Cup winner continues to enjoy a great deal of trust at the DFB. His surprising return had recently led to intense discussions after Oliver Baumann was originally earmarked as the number one for the World Cup

Baumann will now get his next chance to showcase himself against Finland, with Jonas Urbig, who has traveled as an additional goalkeeper, moving into the matchday squad

From Bayern’s and the national team’s point of view, however, one thing counts above all: Neuer is making progress – and the start of the World Cup is drawing ever closer.