Goalkeeping legend Manuel Neuer rules out return to Germany squad

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has ruled out a return to the Germany squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
 

The 39-year-old stepped away from international duty after Euro 2024, but with Marc-André ter Stegen sidelined long-term, speculation had grown over a possible comeback.

Speaking to Bild at the Bavarian State Chancellery in Munich, Neuer said his decision to retire from the national team was final.
 
“First of all, I wasn’t asked. It was a conscious decision on my part to leave the national team and retire, so it’s not even an option for me,” he said.

I had a very successful and enjoyable time, and I’m not currently thinking at all about whether and how I could return. I have been with the team since 2009, and with the European Championship, it was a nice conclusion. I think I got a lot out of German football and maybe also gave German football a little something