Germany Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer Retires From International Football

Germany goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, a 2014 World Cup winner, announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old Bayern Munich star made 124 appearances for Germany, serving as captain in 61 of those matches. His last game was in the quarter-final defeat to eventual champions Spain at Euro 2024.

Neuer wrote on social media that although he was tempted to play until the 2026 World Cup, he was “convinced that now is the right time to take this step”.

He shone at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper as Germany won the trophy for the fourth time.

Neuer revealed he had announced after discussions with his family, as well as a comprehensive conversation with Germany coach, Julian Nagelsmann, on Wednesday morning.

He said he planned to “concentrate fully” on playing for Bayern, with whom he has won two Champions Leagues and 11 Bundesliga titles. This season’s Champions League final will take place at Munich’s Allianz Arena.

Neuer suffered a leg fracture in a skiing accident in December 2022 and only rejoined the Germany squad just before Euro 2024, which took place on home turf, regaining his position as the first-choice goalkeeper.

“It was a great time which shaped me and of which I am very proud,” he said.

“Winning the World Cup title in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championship at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful.

“It was an honor for me to be captain of our national team until 2023. I loved wearing the Germany jersey.”

Neuer follows fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos, who both played at Euro 2024, into international retirement.

On Monday, current Germany captain, Ilkay Gundogan, who missed the 2014 World Cup campaign through injury, also announced he had played his last game at international level.

A graduate of the Schalke Academy in his hometown of Gelsirchen, Neuer made his international debut in 200 and has earned more caps than any other German goalkeeper.

Germany won 81 of the 124 matches Neuer played, and he kept 51 clean sheets.

His retirement paves the way for long-time backup Marc-André ter Stegen, who is anticipated to succeed the Bayern captain as Germany’s number-one goalkeeper.