World class, but no DFB comeback: Why Neuer won’t return for the World Cup | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer is currently performing at an absolutely world-class level – and yet a return to the German national team remains out of the question. There is a concrete reason for this: Julian Nagelsmann

In FC Bayern’s 2-1 away win against Real Madrid, the 40-year-old showed once again why he is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world, making several strong saves to keep Munich in the game and becoming a decisive factor

But while his form has many observers raving, one topic continues to cause discussion: his possible return to the DFB team with a view to the 2026 World Cup. Immediately after the game, however, Neuer made it clear that there is nothing for him to shake. The Bayern captain reacted clearly to corresponding questions and made it clear that everything has already been said for him

Strained relationship with Nagelsmann a decisive factor

As Sports Illustrated reports, the main reason for the lack of a comeback is not sporting performance, but rather on a personal level. According to the report, the relationship between national coach Julian Nagelsmann and Neuer has been strained for some time

The origins of these tensions date back to 2023, when Nagelsmann released goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic during his time at FC Bayern. The decision caused great internal unrest – especially for Neuer, who has been closely associated with Tapalovic for years. The 2014 world champion described the move as a „deep blow“ at the time

Since then, the relationship between Nagelsmann and Neuer has apparently not recovered in the long term. Even after Nagelsmann’s return to the big stage as national team coach, there has been no rapprochement. Against this backdrop, it is hardly surprising that Neuer announced his retirement from the national team in August 2024 – and has so far consistently maintained it

Matthäus hopes – but the door will probably remain closed

photo: IMAGO

Despite the clear starting position, there are still voices hoping for a rethink. Lothar Matthäus recently spoke out and brought Neuer back into the game after his gala performance. „This Neuer is world class, belongs in the national team. I hope that Nagelsmann has seen the game,“ explained the record international on Sky

At the same time, however, Matthäus was realistic and put his own demand into perspective: „I would really like to see a Manuel Neuer in this form at the World Cup. But I also know that won’t happen. Julian Nagelsmann won’t open that door. And that’s another reason why Manuel’s words of resignation remain set in stone.“

The situation therefore seems clear: even if there is a lot to be said for a return in sporting terms, the signs are currently pointing to a permanent departure. However, this is not a disadvantage for FC Bayern. On the contrary: Munich will benefit from the fact that Neuer is fully focused on the club – and continues to lead the way as an absolute top performer.