Neuer insists Germany retirement is permanent ahead of World Cup

Manuel Neuer has ruled out the possibility of overturning his international retirement to feature for Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

The 39-year-old ended his international career following Euro 2024, having helped Germany to the quarter-finals before being knocked out by Spain.

Neuer won the 2014 World Cup with Germany and made 124 appearances across his 15-year career in the national team.

In that time, he managed 51 shutouts and conceded 118 times, playing 11,100 minutes for his nation and winning 81 of those matches.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen had been tipped as his successor, but he has suffered a series of injuries during that time, leading to suggestions that he would be Neuer would reverse his decision.

When asked if his retirement was permanent, Neuer simply replied: “Yes.”

WORLD CUP 2026 HERE WE COME #DFB #GermanFootball #GermanMNT pic.twitter.com/iDVKWixoCT

— German Football (@DFB_Team_EN) November 17, 2025

He then offered support to Oliver Baumann of Hoffenheim, who is currently Julian Nagelsmann’s first choice.

“He’s number one now, and he’s doing his job very well,” Neuer said. “He’s performing very well.

“And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him. I wish him all the best.”