Nagelsmann leaves door open for Manuel Neuer’s Germany return | OneFootball

For months, there has been discussion in Germany about a possible return of Manuel Neuer to the national team - and the topic is now gaining momentum again. The reason for this is the ongoing injury problems of Marc-André ter Stegen, who is expected to be fit for action again at the earliest in early 2026.

National coach Julian Nagelsmann, who had categorically ruled out a Neuer comeback in the summer, seems to have reconsidered his stance. At a press conference, the 38-year-old explained: "It is not advisable to talk about all possible scenarios that could occur. In all games since Manu's retirement, we have not had a goalkeeper problem. Anything can always happen in football that requires certain measures. At the moment, this is not the case," he stated on Thursday before the World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg.

These words leave room for interpretation. What is certain: Nagelsmann no longer rules out a return of the 2014 World Cup winner.

Ter Stegen's injury brings movement to the goalkeeper question

Marc-André ter Stegen was actually firmly planned as number 1 for the 2026 World Cup. But after his recent injury at FC Barcelona, his future in the DFB goal is more in question than ever. When the 33-year-old will actually return to top level is currently open.

For many fans and experts, it is therefore clear: If ter Stegen does not get fit in time, Manuel Neuer would be the logical option. The 39-year-old has been in outstanding form at FC Bayern for months and leads the Bundesliga with a save rate of over 78 percent - the best value of all goalkeepers.

According to current media reports, Neuer would generally be open to a return, but only if Nagelsmann actively seeks the conversation.

Contact exists - but no concrete signal to Neuer yet

Photo: IMAGO

Nagelsmann confirmed on Thursday that there is regular contact between him and Neuer: "I am in contact with Manuel Neuer. But it's not always just about football games."

Behind the scenes, it is clear: If the situation in the DFB goal becomes critical, the national coach would probably seek the conversation. Last year, DFB sports director Rudi Völler had already stated that they deliberately kept the option of a Neuer return open - in case of personnel shortages.

Such a scenario now seems to be becoming increasingly likely. So far, it remains hints, but the signs are pointing to movement: A comeback of the 2014 World Cup winner in the DFB goal is no longer a utopia - but a realistic option for the 2026 World Cup.

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