Germany recall veteran Manuel Neuer for 2026 World Cup campaign
Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has come out of international retirement to start for Germany in their 2026 World Cup opener against Curacao following a shock recall by manager Julian Nagelsmann.
The 40-year-old initially stepped away from the national team following the conclusion of Euro 2024.
However, excellent club form persuaded the Bayern Munich stopper to make himself available for international selection once again.
The European nation head into this tournament desperate to improve upon consecutive group-stage eliminations at the previous two World Cups.
Baumann displaced by returning star
Oliver Baumann had established himself as the national team’s first-choice option during the recent absence of the 2014 world champion.
The displaced goalkeeper handled the demotion honestly, admitting the news was frustrating while maintaining his unwavering commitment to the squad.
A recent calf injury sustained by the returning legend allowed Baumann to impress during two recent warm-up fixtures.
Despite those strong performances, Nagelsmann confirmed his preferred veteran will line up between the posts against Curacao.
Support from former champions
Long-time teammate Thomas Muller publicly questioned the communication surrounding the controversial managerial decision.
However, the experienced forward conceded that recalling the former Schalke academy graduate made perfect sense from a sporting perspective.
The imposing keeper recently signed a club contract extension after shining in a Champions League semi-final against Paris St-Germain.
Benedikt Howedes, who lifted the world title alongside the legendary shot-stopper in Brazil 12 years ago, backed the selection entirely.
“I would say Manuel Neuer is still the best goalkeeper in the world, and of course still in Germany.”
Howedes stated that a player of such elite calibre simply has to feature for the national side if available.
The former defender also highlighted the immense psychological boost that the commanding presence provides to his defensive colleagues.
