MUNICH: Manuel Neuer, Germany’s iconic goalkeeper and a 2014 World Cup winner, officially retired from international football on Wednesday at the age of 38. The Bayern Munich veteran, who has been a cornerstone of German football, made 124 appearances for his country, captaining the national team 61 times. His final match was the quarter-final defeat to Spain at Euro 2024.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Neuer shared that while he considered playing until the 2026 World Cup, he is “convinced that now is the right time to take this step.” Neuer’s stellar performance at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper, remains one of the highlights of his illustrious career.
Revolutionizing the role of the goalkeeper, Neuer became the epitome of the ‘sweeper-keeper,’ often stepping far beyond his penalty area to thwart opposition attacks, all while showcasing footwork skills that rival those of outfield players.
Neuer’s decision to retire came after discussions with his family and a detailed conversation with Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann. The goalkeeper stated that he would now “concentrate fully” on his club career at Bayern Munich, where he has enjoyed tremendous success, winning two Champions League titles and 11 Bundesliga championships.
This season’s Champions League final is set to take place at Munich’s Allianz Arena, adding a symbolic touch to Neuer’s ongoing journey with Bayern.
After a serious leg injury in December 2022, Neuer made a dramatic comeback just before Euro 2024, reclaiming his position as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper. Despite facing criticism for some errors in the lead-up to the tournament, Neuer silenced doubters with his performances during the competition.
Reflecting on his career, Neuer said, “It was a great time that shaped me and of which I am very proud. Winning the World Cup in 2014 and the unique atmosphere during the Euro 2024 on home soil are moments I will cherish forever.”
From 2010 to 2016, Neuer and the German team reached the final four of every major international tournament. However, the team faced setbacks with early exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and a last-16 defeat at Euro 2020. Euro 2024 marked a return to form as Germany won their first knockout match in eight years.
Neuer’s retirement follows that of fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Müller and Toni Kroos, who both retired from international duty after Euro 2024. Ilkay Gündoğan, the current Germany captain, also announced his retirement from international football earlier this week.
A product of Schalke’s youth academy, Neuer debuted for Germany in 2009 and earned more caps than any other goalkeeper in the nation’s history. With Neuer in goal, Germany won 81 of their 124 matches, with the keeper securing 51 clean sheets.
Neuer’s departure paves the way for Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen, who is expected to succeed him as Germany’s number one goalkeeper.