Manu is likely to agree without hesitation.
In a surprising turn of events, the possibility of Manuel Neuer returning to the German national football team is being discussed, despite his retirement last year following the home EURO. The 39-year-old Bayern Munich goalkeeper himself has ruled out a return, but recent discussions have emerged due to his lack of playing practice.
Uli Hoeneß, honorary president of Bayern Munich, has fueled these discussions, stating that Neuer is the best and should play if healthy at a World Cup. However, it seems that Neuer has definitively made up his mind, stating in September 2025 that he has decided not to play for the national team anymore.
His agent had previously suggested a possible comeback if coach Julian Nagelsmann had issues with goalkeepers, but Neuer dismissed this idea. Currently, Nagelsmann has appointed Oliver Baumann of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim as the number one for the six qualifying matches until November.
Baumann, aged 35, has already represented ter Stegen after his knee operation in the Nations League. Meanwhile, ter Stegen, aged 33, has a reserve role at Barcelona after years as the starting goalkeeper. His successor, Marc-André ter Stegen, is currently out due to a back operation.
Interestingly, Nagelsmann will not wait for ter Stegen this year for regular club appearances after his comeback. This leaves the door open for a potential comeback for Neuer, should he return to health and start playing regularly in club matches.
The question remains whether Neuer will change his mind and make a comeback to the national team. Only time will tell if the discussions will lead to a return for one of Germany's most iconic footballers.
Read also:
- United States tariffs pose a threat to India, necessitating the recruitment of adept negotiators or strategists, similar to those who had influenced Trump's decisions.
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns