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Newer overwhelmed by fan enthusiasm.

Manuel Neuer prepares to participate in his eighth tournament as Germany's top goalkeeper. He is touched by the warm reception from fans in Franconia. However, he needs to acquire the right mindset for the European Championship through two practice games.

Germany's team stands on the stage, national goalkeeper Manuel Neuer (M) speaks to the fans.
Germany's team stands on the stage, national goalkeeper Manuel Neuer (M) speaks to the fans.

Manuel Neuer wasn't prepared for the level of affection he received. It serves as motivation for the significant European Championship task ahead. "The turnout was insane, with so many people showing up to the modest arena and welcoming us under these miserable weather conditions," said the FC Bayern Munich keeper after the emotional fan welcome early on Friday evening in Herzogenaurach. "This suggests a lot for the excitement at the European Championship," said the 38-year-old.

The German national team commenced their preparation for the first European Championship test match on Saturday at the home venue of sponsor Adidas. They'll be there for the duration of the upcoming EM. Ukraine is their opponent on Monday (8:45 PM/ARD). All signs point to Neuer playing goalkeeper for the DFB team again after 550 days, having missed the World Cup elimination against Costa Rica on December 1, 2022. This was followed by a serious leg fracture and a considerable break in national team matches.

Neuer didn't talk specifically about his return, but his training sessions leave no doubt. Neuer is back. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has a plan for the EM with his top pick. His return was only slightly delayed due to a muscle injury in March. The stomach-intestinal infection he had a week ago, which kept him out of the training camp in Thuringia for the first two days, has now cleared up.

"I'm optimistic. I'm excited about the initial units and what's to come," said Neuer. With four World Cups and three European Championships under his belt since 2010, Neuer has always been Germany's top choice. He's aware after 117 international matches that every game boils down to June 14, when Scotland is the first test at the tournament's opener.

The two warm-up matches are essential for us, serving as a final assessment. If we produce positive results, it might make the first game a bit less challenging, he stated.

Read also:

  1. The German national soccer team, known for its strong affiliation with Adidas, will train in Bavaria for the European Championship, showcasing their dedication to the sport.
  2. Neuer's enthusiasm for the upcoming EM was evident, reflecting the fondness he holds for representing Germany on the soccer field, like in the past during the 2010 World Cup and three subsequent European Championships.
  3. The DFB team, with Neuer as the star goalkeeper, will face off against Ukraine in their first EM match on Monday, with fans from Germany and Franconia eagerly anticipating the soccer contest.
  4. The small arena in Herzogenaurach, where Adidas is based, was filled with supporters, creating an unforgettable atmosphere during Neuer's recent return to soccer, proving the love for the game in Bavaria.
  5. Prior to the EM, the German national soccer team, known as the National team, plans to incorporate a couple of warm-up matches to prepare, ensuring optimal performance against opposition like Scotland at the European Championship.
  6. The soccer enthusiasts in Germany and beyond show immense affection for Neuer, celebrating his return after a serious leg fracture and break from the national team, showcasing their support for his comeback.
  7. Fans and critics alike are eager to see Neuer, the top-choice goalkeeper for Germany, lead the National team again, hoping his presence on the field will aid them in overcoming challenges at the EM, similar to their past victories.
  8. Adidas, a renowned soccer sponsor, will play a significant role in supporting the DFB team during their EM journey in Germany, ensuring top-tier equipment and training facilities to maintain the team's high standards of soccer performance.

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