Going to the World Cup with Germany? Bayern goalkeeper Neuer speaks plainly! | OneFootball

Marc-André ter Stegen’s new injury has reignited the goalkeeping debate in Germany – but Manuel Neuer has now taken the wind out of its sails himself

After the DFB Cup match against RB Leipzig, the 39-year-old was asked about a possible comeback in the DFB team for the 2026 World Cup. The answer was unequivocal. When asked whether his decision to no longer play for Germany was set in stone, Neuer replied curtly: „Yes.“

It is therefore clear that the 2014 world champion will not be returning to the national team. Despite his continued strong performances in the FC Bayern shirt, Neuer is sticking to the decision he made in the summer of 2024

Neuer has Baumann’s back

At the same time, the Bayern captain demonstratively backed his potential successor. Following ter Stegen’s injury, Oliver Baumann is considered the top favourite for the number one role at the 2026 World Cup. Neuer was convinced by the Hoffenheim goalkeeper: „He’s now the number one and he’s doing his job very well. He’s basically performing very well. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him, of course, and wish him all the best.“

Clear words – without a back door. While many fans and experts had hoped for a return of the veteran in view of the personnel situation in the DFB goal, Neuer is sending a clear signal. For him, the focus is now exclusively on FC Bayern

However, it remains to be seen what will happen beyond the current season. His contract in Munich expires in the summer, and concrete talks about an extension have recently been postponed. The club and player want to take their time to make a decision after the end of the season

One thing is clear, however: Manuel Neuer will no longer be standing between the posts in a DFB jersey.