- Exceptional goalkeeper beyond comparison
Dang, Julian Nagelsmann, the German national football team's coach, and Rudi Völler, the DFB's sports director, have responded to Manuel Neuer's decision to step down from the national team with a mix of respect and sadness.
Nagelsmann, speaking on the DFB's website, stated that while he understands Neuer's motives and reasons, his departure is a significant blow, both in terms of talent and personality. According to Nagelsmann, Neuer has redefined goalkeeping in football history like no other. "His amazing saves, his brave moments, his game-changing actions, and his magnetic charm made him more than just the foundation of the national team for nearly 15 years."
For Völler, Neuer's departure signs the end of an extraordinary stint with the national team. "His accomplishments are unmatched, and all we can do is pay our respects," Völler said. "In the realm of goalkeeping in Germany, Neuer is an exceptional figure among many exceptional keepers who have revolutionized the art of goalkeeping through his unique style."
Neuer, in a previous statement, announced his retirement from the national team after 15 solid years. Now at 38, the 2014 World Cup champ will no longer be the primary goalkeeper for the national team. Instead, he'll be focusing on FC Bayern Munich exclusively. "His contributions to football in Germany and the DFB are challenging to quantify," DFB president Bernd Neuendorf stated. "We are losing a fantastic goalkeeper, a powerful personality, and an exceptional character."
Nagelsmann expressed his appreciation for Neuer's contributions to German football, stating, "We are deeply grateful for his outstanding performances and unmatched personality." Völler also echoed this sentiment, saying, "Neuer's impact on German football is immeasurable, and we can only show our gratitude for his service to the national team."
