Germany name 2026 World Cup squad as Manuel Neuer reverses retirement
Julian Nagelsmann has named veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in his 26-man Germany squad for the 2026 World Cup in North America as the nation targets a fifth world title.
The 2014 winners are looking to bounce back from a disastrous 2022 campaign in Qatar, where they suffered a shock group-stage exit.
Die Mannschaft begin their tournament against Curacao on 14 June, before facing Ivory Coast and Ecuador in their remaining group fixtures.
Neuer returns for final tournament
The most striking inclusion is the veteran Neuer, who has reversed his international retirement to compete in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Bayern Munich stalwart is expected to reclaim the number one jersey he previously relinquished in August 2024.
Hoffenheim captain Oliver Baumann travels as the primary deputy, alongside Stuttgart stopper Alexander Nubel.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen misses out entirely after an injury-plagued season on loan at Girona from Barcelona.
Experience anchors the defence
Nagelsmann has opted for a blend of youth and vast experience across his defensive line.
Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rudiger is included despite enduring an injury-hit campaign in the Spanish capital.
Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck and Bayern’s Jonathan Tah are anticipated to form the core of the central defence.
Meanwhile, highly-rated youngster Nathaniel Brown has received his first call-up for a major international tournament.
Kimmich leads star-studded midfield
Joshua Kimmich will captain the national side after securing his 10th Bundesliga title under club manager Vincent Kompany.
He is joined by club colleague Leon Goretzka, who earns a place despite struggling for consistent domestic minutes.
In the advanced areas, the squad boasts the immense creative talents of Jamal Musiala and Liverpool playmaker Florian Wirtz.
Both attacking midfielders are expected to shoulder the creative burden for their country this summer.