Germany's World Cup hopes rest on veteran keeper Neuer, says coach Nagelsmann

Germany's World Cup campaign hinges on the experienced Manuel Neuer, with coach Julian Nagelsmann stating the 40-year-old goalkeeper has found his rhythm at the crucial moment. Nagelsmann confirmed that Neuer's top performance is essential for Germany's success in the tournament.

“

In order to have a good World Cup, we need Manuel in top performance and we think he can do that.

Nathaniel Brown is set to earn his first World Cup appearance in Germany's Group E opener against Curacao. Nagelsmann expressed confidence in Neuer, noting that while the goalkeeper lacked rhythm earlier, he has now regained it, which is vital for the four-time champions.

“

He didn’t ​have the rhythm, but now he has found the rhythm.

Germany enters the tournament seeking to restore its international reputation after disappointing early exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Nagelsmann downplayed questions about Germany not being considered among the top favorites, suggesting that status can be reassessed after the competition. He stated that the team's job is to have a perfect World Cup now to be considered favorites in the future.

“

When we ​take a look at the last two World Cups, we didn’t perform in a good way ​, so we won’t be mentioned as a favourite for this tournament.

The team's immediate focus is on a physical and technical Curacao side, which possesses the quality to surprise. Nagelsmann, the tournament's youngest coach at 38, faces off against Curacao's oldest coach, Dick Advocaat, 78. Nagelsmann humorously expressed hope for a different career path at that age, while commending Advocaat's work.

“

It is our job to do a perfect World Cup now, and then we will be a favourite for the next World Cup.