The German national team’s goalkeeper situation is rather uncertain at the moment. A third major injury for the eternally unlucky current No.1, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, has put his participation, let alone
his fitness, for the 2026 World Cup into serious question. Now DFB manager Julian Nagelsmann has to seriously entertain the possibility of a new No.1 for Germany for the World Cup. But who could it be? Are Oliver Baumann and/or Alexander Nübel, the two main goalkeepers called up to the squad in the past when Ter Stegen was unavailable, good enough? Or should a third candidate be selected?
Naturally, as people discussed who that third candidate would be, Manuel Neuer was brought up. Though he retired from international duty in 2024 and has since completely ruled a return out, speculation has not stopped linking the Bayern number 1 to a sensational return.
Asked about this topic ahead of Bayern’s Bundesliga clash against TSG Hoffenheim, Vincent Kompany refused to be pulled into these discussions.
“The situation hasn’t changed. Manu is the same age as me. I can give him bits of advice sometimes. But he’s got enough experience to make his own decisions,” Kompany said, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “He’s a special person and a special goalkeeper. I want him to enjoy the way he’s performing right now. Everything else is for the media to discuss.”
A returns still seems incredibly unlikely. But as long as there still uncertainty in Germany’s goal and Neuer is still playing, he will be linked to the position. Time will tell if there is any basis to this speculation. But the smart money is on this not happening.
