BERLIN – Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, a 2014 World Cup winner, believes that now is the “right time” as he announced his retirement from international football on Aug 21 at the age of 38.
The Bayern Munich veteran played 124 matches for Germany, captaining his country between 2016 and 2023. His final appearance came in the quarter-final loss to eventual champions Spain at Euro 2024.
Neuer wrote on social media that although he was tempted to play until the 2026 World Cup, he was “convinced that now is the right time to take this step”.
“Anyone who knows me knows that I didn’t take this decision lightly. I feel very well physically and, of course, the 2026 World Cup… would also have appealed to me,” he said.
He shone at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper as Germany won the trophy for the fourth time.
He revealed he had made the announcement after discussions with his family, as well as a comprehensive conversation with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Neuer also said that he planned to “concentrate fully” on playing for Bayern, with whom he has won two Champions Leagues and 11 Bundesliga titles.
“Winning the World Cup title in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championship at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful,” he added.
“It was an honour for me to be captain of our national team until 2023. I loved wearing the Germany jersey.”
He follows fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos, who both played at Euro 2024, into international retirement.
Earlier on Aug 19, current Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan, who missed the 2014 World Cup campaign through injury, also announced he had played his last game at international level.
Germany’s national football federation (DFB) said Neuer was one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.
“All words seem too small. But they come from the heart: Thank you, Manu,” it said in a statement.
A product of the Schalke academy in his home town of Gelsenkirchen, Neuer made his international debut in 2009 and has more caps than any other Germany goalkeeper.
Known as the archetypal “sweeper keeper” of the modern era, he revolutionised the position, often venturing from his penalty box to snuff out attacks while possessing skills with his feet usually reserved for outfield players.
During his 124 appearances for Germany, he kept 51 clean sheets.
His retirement clears the way for long-time backup Marc-Andre ter Stegen of Barcelona, who is expected to take over from the Bayern captain as Germany’s No. 1. AFP, REUTERS
