Neuer on track for World Cup after Pokal final party

Manuel Neuer is dancing, jumping, and declaring himself "on a good path" after Bayern Munich's DFB-Pokal final victory. The veteran goalkeeper, who missed the match due to a calf injury, celebrated with his teammates from the stands. He joined the team's jubilant celebrations on the field after their 3-0 win over VfB Stuttgart, even managing a "little hop" despite his injury.

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Here for this, at least, to celebrate.

Neuer's participation in the final was a joint decision between him, the team doctor, and Bayern Munich. Coach Julian Nagelsmann explained that playing in the final carried a small risk of hindering his recovery. "We talked a lot this week, also with the doc. We had good communication with Bayern Munich," Nagelsmann said. "It was a joint decision about how much risk to take before such a tournament. Playing could have meant a small residual risk that it wouldn't heal as it has now."

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It was just a little hop.

The coach is focused on Neuer's spectacular comeback for the World Cup. The German national team begins its tournament preparations on Wednesday in Herzogenaurach. Nagelsmann wants to avoid any further risks, stating that Neuer's recovery is progressing well. "From the national team's perspective, it's good that he gets a few more days of rest and then can start with us fully prepared," Nagelsmann told DFB-TV.

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We talked a lot this week, also with the doc. We had good communication with Bayern Munich. It was a joint decision about how much risk to take before such a tournament. Playing could have meant a small residual risk that it wouldn't heal as it has now.

Neuer's return to the national team camp will be managed carefully. A comeback in the upcoming friendly against Finland on Sunday is not a necessity. This situation echoes 2014, when Neuer missed final test matches due to a shoulder injury sustained in a Pokal final, only to rejoin the team in Brazil. Oliver Baumann, now demoted to second-choice goalkeeper, might start. However, Neuer's importance to the national team remains undisputed, as Bayern's Leon Goretzka noted his vast experience in high-stakes situations.

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From the national team's perspective, it's good that he gets a few more days of rest and then can start with us fully prepared.