Germany's Manuel Neuer confirms 2026 World Cup will be his last

Veteran German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of his illustrious international career. The 40-year-old had initially announced his retirement from international football following Euro 2024, but a strong resurgence in form with Bayern Munich saw him recalled to the national squad.

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I retired in 2024 for the right reasons after the Euros on home soil. It was the right decision and at the time I felt the moment had come. However, for me, this is the final tournament. I do not plan to be at the next Euros, and for the past few days, I have started to accept that this is my last match with Germany.

Neuer, who is participating in his fifth World Cup, remains a critical figure for Germany as they compete in North America. He stated, "I retired in 2024 for the right reasons after the Euros on home soil. It was the right decision and at the time I felt the moment had come. However, for me, this is the final tournament. I do not plan to be at the next Euros, and for the past few days, I have started to accept that this is my last match with Germany."

The experienced shot-stopper, instrumental in Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph, stressed that his current focus is solely on the team's performance in the ongoing tournament. He aims to help Germany advance as far as possible, particularly after their consecutive group-stage exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. "Our main goal is to reach the knockout rounds. We do not want to keep looking back, but rather focus on what can be achieved now," Neuer commented.

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Our main goal is to reach the knockout rounds. We do not want to keep looking back, but rather focus on what can be achieved now.

Neuer views his return to the world stage at the age of 40 as a significant honor and is committed to contributing to the team's success. Germany is currently in a strong position in Group E, having secured a dominant victory in their opening match. If Germany progresses deep into the tournament, it would provide a fitting conclusion to the career of a goalkeeper widely regarded as one of the greatest in football history.

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Being here again is a very special gift. I cherish every moment and want to help the team achieve something great.