Manuel Neuer is heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And then he’s done.
The Bayern Munich goalkeeper, who initially retired from international duty in August 2024, has announced that this summer’s tournament will be his final act in a Germany shirt. At 40 years old, Neuer is set to become the oldest player to represent Germany in a major tournament, capping off a career that has spanned 124 caps and five World Cups.
From retirement to recall
Neuer stepped away from the national team on August 21, 2024, following Germany’s quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024. At that point, 124 caps seemed like a clean number to end on.
Then coach Julian Nagelsmann reopened it. On May 21, 2026, Nagelsmann recalled Neuer to the squad for the upcoming World Cup.
