Talk of Manuel Neuer’s potential return to the German national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue to run amuck. Several players, Joshua Kimmich being the latest, have thrown cold water on the rumours, however, the talk persists. After another clean sheet and capable performance from Oliver Baumann, Germany coach, Julian Nagelsmann, has now weighed in on the matter.
The 38-year-old manager believes that the goalkeeping department is not an area of concern for the national team.
“Since Manu
retired, we didn’t lose a game because of a goalkeeping mistake,” said the former Bayern Munich manager following Germany’s 1-0 victory against Northern Ireland (via @iMiaSanMia). “Manu is playing a very good season, but we don’t have a goalkeeping problem. This discussion does not help anyone, neither our goalkeepers nor Manu himself, who is focused on Bayern.”
If you were looking forward to seeing Neuer between the sticks at next years world cup, it may be time to let the dream go. At this point there is no indication that the Bayern Munich captain will, or even wants to, return to international football. Combined with Germany’s depth in the position as well as Baumann’s performances, the chances are near to zero. However, crazier things have happened.
All in all, Julian Nagelsmann likely has an extensive list of problems that need to be solved ahead of next years world cup, and who Germany’s starting goalkeeper will be is certainly not one of them.
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