![\"\u2018Last](\"https:\/\/static.toiimg.com\/thumb\/msid-131848231,imgsize-287544,width-400,height-225,resizemode-4\/manuel-neuer.jpg\" "\\"Manuel")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nGermany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has confirmed that he will retire from international football after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup 2026, bringing an end to one of the most iconic careers in modern football.The 40-year-old, a key figure in Germany\u2019s 2014 World Cup triumph, made the announcement during a press conference, stating that this tournament would mark his final appearance for the national team.Neuer is currently featuring in his fifth consecutive World Cup as Germany\u2019s first-choice goalkeeper, a remarkable return after initially stepping away from international football following Euro 2024, where Germany exited in the quarter-finals on home soil.<\/p>\n Explaining his journey back into the national setup, Neuer admitted that his decision to step aside in 2024 was carefully considered.\u201cI stepped back in 2024 with a good reason after a good home Euro. For me, it was the right decision. It felt right,\u201d Neuer said, as quoted by Reuters.He also revealed that continuing for another cycle would have placed too heavy a physical and mental burden on him.\u201cIt would have been too much of a sporting burden for me (to have kept playing for the national team) for the last two years,\u201d he added.Confirming his retirement timeline, Neuer was clear about the road ahead.\u201cFor me, it is clear that this is my last tournament. I do not plan to be there in two years time for the next Euro. In the last days, I have dealt with the fact that these are the last games for Germany. But I want to look forward to all the games and not to any goodbye shirts.\u201d<\/p>\n Neuer\u2019s inclusion in the World Cup squad had surprised many, as coach Julian Nagelsmann initially named Oliver Baumann as Germany\u2019s first-choice goalkeeper. However, an impressive run of form with Bayern Munich saw Neuer recalled for the tournament.He returned in style during Germany\u2019s opening Group E match, helping his side to a commanding 7-1 victory over Curacao.Neuer also emphasised unity within the squad despite the selection debate.\u201cWe work together with Oliver. We support each other and train for the team. After coming together, we discussed things and talked about how it came about (with my return),\u201d he said.Germany next face Ivory Coast in their second Group E fixture in Toronto on June 20. The match is expected to be a key step in their push for knockout qualification after their dominant opening win.<\/div>\n\u201cIt felt right\u201d: Neuer reflects on return and retirement decision
<\/h2>\n<\/p>\nReturn under Nagelsmann and World Cup role
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