Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has closed the door on a return to the German national team, confirming he will not participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Over the past few months, German media outlets have speculated about Neuer’s potential return to guard the Mannschaft’s goal at the World Cup, given Marc-André ter Stegen’s injury and the lack of confidence in Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nübel.
It was initially reported that Neuer was willing to come out of international retirement, provided he had a frank conversation with coach Julian Nagelsmann. However, the 40-year-old has denied this.
“I decided to retire with conviction because I want to focus on my club career,” Neuer told Bild.
“I’ve stopped playing internationally, and that’s final.”
Barcelona is perhaps the happiest with Neuer’s decision, as his absence significantly increases Ter Stegen’s chances of becoming Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper, provided he plays regularly for the remainder of the season.
Thus, Ter Stegen will be forced to leave Barcelona, either on loan or permanently, in January, thereby freeing the Catalan club from his hefty salary.
Ter Stegen has already attracted considerable interest from Turkish side Besiktas and French club Monaco, and Chelsea may also be open to signing him.
It’s worth noting that Nagelsmann has made it clear that the only way for Ter Stegen to be included in the World Cup squad is if he plays consistently once he recovers from his injury, something impossible at Barcelona due to Hansi Flick’s confidence in Juan Garcia.
