Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has reversed his international retirement and been named as Germany's first-choice goalkeeper for the upcoming World Cup, head coach Julian Nagelsmann confirmed on Thursday. The 40-year-old, who last played for Germany at Euro 2024, will now feature in his fifth consecutive World Cup, joining an elite group of players with five or more tournament appearances.
Nagelsmann's Decision
Nagelsmann, who had previously designated Hoffenheim's Oliver Baumann as his primary keeper, explained the change of plan. "Yes, I plan with Neuer as No. 1," Nagelsmann said. "The main task was to nominate the best three keepers. So we decided that these three are part of that. We contacted Manuel and asked him if he wanted to play for the national team again."
Neuer's Recent Form and Contract
Neuer enjoyed a solid season with Bayern Munich, who can secure a domestic double with a victory over Stuttgart in the German Cup final on Saturday. He signed a contract extension with the club last week, further solidifying his commitment to the Bavarian side. The 2014 World Cup winner brings invaluable experience to a squad aiming to reclaim glory after shock group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022.
Squad Announcement
Nagelsmann's 26-man squad for the tournament, which begins next month, includes few major surprises. Notably, Bayern teenager Lennart Karl earned a call-up after a meteoric rise this season, alongside Nadiem Amiri and Leroy Sané. However, several players missed out, including Niclas Füllkrug, Karim Adeyemi, and Kevin Schade.
"They (players) fit well together. It is a good mix. Many have been playing together since the youth," Nagelsmann said. "We are happy with our choice but know others will stay at home who have performed very well."
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Alexander Nübel (Stuttgart).
Defenders: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Nathaniel Brown (Eintracht Frankfurt), David Raum (Leipzig), Waldemar Anton (Borussia Dortmund), Pascal Gross (Brighton), Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid), Malick Thiaw (Newcastle), Jonathan Tah (Bayern Munich).
Midfielders: Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Jamie Leweling (Stuttgart), Aleksandar Pavlović (Bayern Munich), Nadiem Amiri (Mainz), Felix Nmecha (Borussia Dortmund), Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart), Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich).
Forwards: Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart), Maximilian Beier (Borussia Dortmund), Florian Wirtz (Liverpool), Nick Woltemade (Newcastle), Lennart Karl (Bayern Munich), Leroy Sané (Galatasaray).
World Cup Ambitions
Germany, drawn in Group E with Curacao, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast, have set their sights on a fifth World Cup title. "The statement stands," Nagelsmann declared. "We want to become world champions. Every player who is nominated needs to show it now every day."
