- The DFB team's new era has commenced: "Inevitable shift in team management"
After nearly two decades in the German national team, Manuel Neuer addresses the camera with a satisfied smile, stating, "Guess it was inevitable eventually." At 38, he formally announces his departure from the DFB squad, ending his football career with the German national team. "As of now, my stint with the German football team has drawed to a close."
Following an unsuccessful European Championship at home, Neuer relinquishes his aim for the 2026 World Cup, dedicating himself solely to FC Bayern. It appears that the time has come for Marc-André ter Stegen to take the reigns in the DFB squad, after years of anticipation.
Nagelsmann & Völler Pay Tribute
Germany's head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, must now replace another veteran player and a significant pillar of the team, following the retirements of Toni Kroos, Thomas Müller, and Ilkay Gündogan. Nagelsmann expressed his sentiments in an official DFB statement, "Though I comprehend Manuel's reasons and decision, his departure is a significant loss - both in terms of sports and on a personal level." He further praised Manuel, saying, "There isn't another goalkeeper who has redefined the art of goalkeeping like Manuel Neuer in football history."
DFB sporting director Rudi Völler also added his thoughts: "In the annals of German goalkeepers, Manuel stands out among many exceptional keepers, and his unique style has revolutionized the art of goalkeeping."
Neuer Abandon 2026 World Cup Despite Good Physical Condition
Neuer's DFB debut came on June 2, 2009, against the United Arab Emirates (7:2), and he admits he was "utterly nervous." He remained the first-choice goalkeeper for Germany in eight major tournaments following that, including the crowning achievement of winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Looking back, he expresses a sense of pride and gratitude for his time with the DFB squad, serving as captain for seven years.
Neuer is in excellent physical condition, but he is convinced that the time for retirement has come. "The 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico would have been an enticing prospect for me," he said. "However, I am convinced that this is the right time to retire." Neuer's last international match came in the heartbreaking 1:2 defeat against Spain in the Euro Championship quarter-finals quadrant.
A Thoughtful Retirement After Euro Exit
Neuer played a total of 124 international matches for Germany, having clocked in 11,100 minutes in the DFB goal, which is equivalent to 185 hours or 7.7 days. For over a decade, he has revolutionized international goalkeeping with his exceptional performances, skill, reflexes, and class beyond the goal line. "Manuel Neuer has already left an indelible mark on the history of German football and sports during his active career," praised Bayern's sports director Max Eberl.
The native of Gelsenkirchen had left his decision about his future with the DFB team undecided after the Euro. "I said I would weigh my options after the tournament," Neuer recalled immediately after the tournament. Rumors surfaced earlier this week that Neuer intended to continue. However, he has now put an end to any speculation. "Wearing the German national team jersey was an honor for me, thank you for that," he said in a heartfelt message to fans and colleagues.
He faced the possibility of ending his DFB or even football career over a year and a half ago after a severe skiing accident following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, resulting in a complex lower leg fracture. "Recovering from that, returning to the pitch for a home European Championship, was my personal triumph," Neuer shared.
National coach Nagelsmann had announced during the EM that he wanted to bring fresh faces to the DFB squad with the 2026 World Cup in view. Neuer, along with Kroos, who retired from football altogether at the age of 34, and Müller, are the last World Cup champions from Rio to leave the DFB team. "Manu will be missed in the national team," said Nagelsmann. Just like Müller, Neuer aims to seal the biggest titles with Bayern, with the Champions League final scheduled for Munich in 2025 spring. Even DFB captain Gundogan has recently bid farewell to international football.
Is ter Stegen the new number one bet?
Neuer's long-term DFB teammate and rival ter Stegen (32) has been identified as the primary candidate to fill the vacant number one spot in the DFB team's goal. Ter Stegen had even dared to entertain hopes of assuming the number one role during the home EM. However, Neuer's return for his final appearances in the DFB shirt dashed those hopes.
After announcing his retirement from the German national team, Manuel Neuer focuses on his role with FC Bayern.His former rival and long-term teammate ter Stegen is poised to take over the number one spot in the DFB team's goal, following Neuer's departure.
With Neuer's retirement from the DFB squad, FC Bayern's Marc-André ter Stegen steps up to assume the position he has long coveted within the German national team.
