Manuel Neuer leads Germany towards the 2026 World Cup
The experienced goalkeeper Manuel Neuer leads the call-up for the German national team for the 2026 World Cup. At 40 years old, the Bayern Munich goalkeeper returns to the national team, marking a milestone in his career. The coach Julian Nagelsmann confirmed Neuer’s inclusion this Thursday, ending weeks of speculation about his possible return. Nagelsmann explained the decision after an in-depth analysis.Nagelsmann also announced that Neuer will be the team’s starting goalkeeper in the next World Cup. The call-up of the 2014 world champion has generated debate, especially due to the good performance of Oliver Baumann, who was a starter during the qualifying phase. Alexander Nübel completes the trio of goalkeepers, while Jonas Urbig joins the group for training. The list of those called up includes key figures such as Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Jamal Musiala, and Florian Wirtz. In addition, there are new additions such as attacking midfielder Lennart Karl and the return of Nadiem Amiri to the midfield. Nagelsmann also addressed Musiala’s physical condition, who recently recovered from an injury.“We decided after many discussions that the three best goalkeepers in Germany should be at the World Cup. That’s why we spoke with Manuel to find out if he was willing to return,”
Julian Nagelsmann
In defense, Germany maintains the base from the qualifying phase, with Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, and David Raum. Antonio Rüdiger is also part of the team, although he is expected to have a secondary role. In the attack, Kai Havertz, Leroy Sané, and Maximilian Beier stand out, forming a squad that combines experience and youth, with the ambition of taking Germany to the top of world football.“We hope he returns to his former self. Even at 80 percent, Jamal is still one of the best players on the planet”,
Julian Nagelsmann
