It is German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer on his Instagram page announced his retirement from the national team after 15 years. In his post, he wrote that he did not take this decision lightly. The soccer player feels very good physically and was also attracted to the 2026 North American World Cup, but after intense and long discussions with his family and friends, he decided to end his career with the German national soccer team.
“When I look back today, I am proud and grateful!”
Neuer, who defended in 124 games for the German national team, continued his post. The goalkeeper is most proud of the fact that they became world champions in 2014 in Brazil. Neuer captained the German national team for 7 years and 61 matches. He also added that this year’s European Championship in Germany was also a highlight, and although the Germans lost to Spain in the quarter-finals, he felt the euphoria and solidarity throughout the country.
He ended his post by thanking his staff, coaches, teammates and the enthusiastic fans who have supported him since his debut in 2009.
It is not known exactly what could be behind the German goalkeeper’s decision. THE Bild According to the German newspaper Julian Nagelsmann, the national team captain may also have had something to do with it. The relationship between the two has been strained since Nagelsmann fired Neuer’s goalkeeper coach and teammate Toni Tapalovic at Bayern in 2023.
“Even if I understand Manu’s decision and motives, his departure is a great loss – both from a sporting and personal perspective”
Nagelsmann told Bild. The coach of the national team added that Neuer will be missed by the German national team because he is a great sportsman and a “good guy” who was enjoyable to talk to.
Most recently, Thomas Müller retired from the national team, and before that Toni Kroos announced that he was leaving the German national team. Neuer was the last player not to withdraw from the 2014 World Cup squad until now.
