Calls for Neuer’s Return Grow Louder
German media have revealed that some officials within the DFB are persuading Julian Nagelsmann to bring Manuel Neuer back to the national team. Previously, the German press had already raised the topic, and Nagelsmann seemed increasingly frustrated by the repeated questions. Yet, with Marc-André ter Stegen still sidelined and far from match fitness, the goalkeeper issue has become a growing concern for Germany.
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Neuer’s Performance Still Elite
After Euro 2024, Neuer announced his retirement from international football, but reports suggest it wasn’t entirely voluntary. When the 2026 World Cup begins, Neuer will be 40, but his current form remains excellent. He has never ruled out returning to the national team, and Bayern Munich’s management would likely support him if he did.
Recently, news surfaced that Bayern may extend his contract again. Neuer himself remains relaxed, saying his decision will depend on his physical condition. He wants to wait until after Christmas to discuss his future, focusing first on staying injury-free. Within Bayern, most believe he won’t retire next summer — and the club is ready to offer him a one-year extension without pressure.
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Training Smarter to Stay Fit
In recent years, Neuer has faced recurring injuries, but with age, he has adapted his training methods to maintain peak health. Before every official session, he works out in the gym, and he also receives daily physiotherapy treatments. Twice a week, he adds personal strength sessions, lifting weights for 30 minutes after team practice.
Currently, even compared to his 22-year-old backup, Daniel Peretz, Neuer’s physical condition is equally impressive. Bayern insiders believe signing Peretz as a future successor has only pushed Neuer to perform even better. Sports director Max Eberl praised him: “Neuer is a great captain who has given the team tremendous support. Over the past few months, he has played a vital role in our success.”
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Ter Stegen’s Struggles Complicate the Situation
If Neuer maintains his current form, he’s certainly capable of returning to Germany’s squad for the World Cup — though it would be harsh on Ter Stegen. The Barcelona keeper, six years younger, has been Neuer’s backup for over a decade. Despite 44 national appearances, he’s yet to play in a World Cup or Euro match.
Just as he was about to become Germany’s No.1, injuries struck again. In the past 14 months, he has played only twice for Barcelona. Even after a brief return, he relapsed, and tensions grew between him and the club, which is now reportedly open to selling him.
Ter Stegen is expected to recover from his back injury in December or January, but earning his place back in Barcelona’s starting lineup may still be difficult. Nagelsmann recently stated that “playing regularly is more important than being at a big club,” implying that Ter Stegen should consider a transfer in the winter window.
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Nagelsmann’s Reluctance Remains the Key
Even if Ter Stegen struggles, Neuer’s return still depends on Nagelsmann. The coach has made it clear that he doesn’t intend to recall the veteran — possibly due to their uneasy relationship during their time together at Bayern.
Last month, when asked again about Neuer, Nagelsmann snapped:
“Since Neuer retired, we haven’t lost a single match due to a goalkeeper’s mistake. I’m surprised we’re spending three hours every week discussing this. Neuer has been excellent this season, but our goalkeepers are doing fine. These discussions help no one — not our current goalkeepers, and not Neuer. His focus should stay on Bayern.”
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Two Conditions for a Possible Return
Currently, Hoffenheim’s 35-year-old Oliver Baumann is Germany’s first-choice keeper. Although capable, few believe he’s ideal for a major tournament. According to German media, Neuer’s return could happen only if two conditions are met:
1️⃣ Ter Stegen fails to regain a starting role after recovery.
2️⃣ Nagelsmann changes his stance and sincerely reaches out to Neuer.
So, how likely is it? According to former German international Dietmar Hamann, “Neuer playing in the World Cup is highly possible. Ter Stegen’s chance may have already slipped away.”
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