Germany's World Cup prep: Neuer's return looms large amid Chicago backdrop

The German national football team is using the impressive Chicago skyline as a backdrop for their World Cup preparations, but the real focus is on the pitch at the Endeavor Health Performance Center. The primary question surrounding the team is the potential comeback of veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Neuer, 40, has been dealing with a hardening in his left calf, and it remains uncertain if he is risk-free for the upcoming match against the USA. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has opted for closed-door training sessions, but a recently released DFB video offered clues. The footage showed Neuer, seated on the grass, successfully parrying several shots, indicating he is continuing his load-building program.

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He was back on the pitch. I don't know if he's done everything yet. But he was definitely on the pitch.

Teammate Kai Havertz expressed optimism about Neuer's progress, noting that the goalkeeper was "on the pitch" during training, even if he didn't participate in everything. "I don't know if he's done everything yet. But he was definitely on the pitch," Havertz, a striker for Arsenal, stated. Neuer also provided positive visuals earlier in the morning, seen walking along Chicago's Lake Michigan promenade with his younger Bayern and DFB backup, Jonas Urbig, suggesting intergenerational camaraderie.

Despite the positive signs, the DFB has stated Neuer is still in a "load-building phase." The team's comeback after a two-year absence could potentially be delayed until the World Cup opener on June 14 against Curaçao if necessary, with the calf needing to hold up throughout the tournament. Oliver Baumann remains an option to step in if needed against the USA. Havertz, however, is ready to contribute, eager to join the team after his Champions League final disappointment with Arsenal. He emphasized the team's need for collective function, stating, "We have to function together as a team. And everyone needs everyone. And one will play more, the other less. But everyone has to be there when they are needed."

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We have to function together as a team. And everyone needs everyone. And one will play more, the other less. But everyone has to be there when they are needed.