Debate over Germany return: Manuel Neuer breaks his silence | OneFootball

The discussions about a possible comeback of Manuel Neuer in the DFB jersey are not ending. But now the 39-year-old himself has taken a stand - and put an end to the speculations for the time being.

On Wednesday, the long-time first-choice goalkeeper of the national team stated at a reception in the Bavarian State Chancellery in Munich: "First of all, I was not asked. It was a conscious decision on my part that I am no longer with the national team and have also retired."

After 124 international matches, Neuer announced his retirement from the DFB team after the home European Championship in 2024. "Accordingly, this is not an option for me," the Bayern captain made clear.

Ter Stegen's injury misfortune sparks open discussion

The succession in the German goal was actually settled: Marc-André ter Stegen was considered a given. But the FC Barcelona keeper has been struggling with injuries for more than a year. After a patellar tendon tear, he is now out for several months again due to back surgery and will miss at least the next four World Cup qualifying matches.

In his absence, Oliver Baumann from TSG Hoffenheim is guarding the goal. The 35-year-old has so far impressed with solid performances, but despite his age, he is considered internationally inexperienced.

Photo: IMAGO

The speculations about a possible return of Neuer were fueled in recent days by two prominent voices. First, advisor Thomas Kroth stated in the Frankfurter Rundschau: "He is in top shape, absolutely delivers his performance. If Julian Nagelsmann sees a problem in the position, Manuel is healthy and asked - then Manu will certainly not say no."

Uli Hoeneß also spoke out in favor of a comeback on Wednesday. "At a World Cup, the best have to play. And Manuel is the best. That's why he has to play there if he is healthy," said the honorary president of FC Bayern.

Neuer himself sticks to his decision

Despite these advocates, Neuer himself does not want to fuel the speculations further. Although he did not categorically rule out a return to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, he emphasized: "I had a very successful and beautiful time, and I am currently not thinking at all about whether and how it could be that Manuel Neuer returns to the national team."

For the 2014 World Cup winner, the home European Championship was a perfect conclusion. "I think I have received a lot from German football and maybe also given a little to German football," said the keeper.

One thing is certain: Even if Neuer himself has declared the national team chapter closed, the debate about a comeback in light of the goalkeeper situation at the DFB is far from over.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.