‘Last one for me’: Manuel Neuer confirms retirement after 2026 World Cup in emotional announcement

Manuel Neuer takes part in training. (AP photo) Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has confirmed that he will retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup, ending one of modern football’s most iconic careers.The 40-year-old, a key figure in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph, made the announcement at a press conference, saying the tournament would mark his last appearance for the national team.Neuer is currently in his fifth consecutive World Cup as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper, a remarkable return after initially leaving international football after Euro 2024, where Germany made a quarter-final appearance on home soil.

‘It was the right thing’: Neuer reflects on comeback and retirement decision

Explaining his journey back into the national set-up, Neuer admitted his decision to leave in 2024 was carefully considered.“In 2024, after a good domestic Euro, I came back for a good reason. It was the right decision for me. It was the right one,” Neuer was quoted as saying by Reuters.He also revealed that continuing with the next cycle would be too much of a physical and mental burden for him.“It would be too much of a sporting burden for me (to continue playing for the national team) for the past two years,” he added.Confirming his retirement timetable, Neuer was clear about the road ahead.“For me, it’s clear that this is my last tournament. I don’t plan to be there for the next Euro in two years. In the last few days, I’ve dealt with the fact that these are the last games for Germany. But I want to look forward to all the games and not some farewell shirts.”

Return to the role of Nagelsmann and the World Cup

Neuer’s inclusion in the World Cup squad surprised many as coach Julian Nagelsmann had initially named Oliver Baumann as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper. However, an impressive run of form with Bayern Munich led to Neuer being recalled for the tournament.He returned in style during the opening Group E match in Germany, helping his side to an impressive 7-1 win over Curacao.Neuer also emphasized unity in the squad despite the selection debate.“I work with Oliver. We support each other and train for the team. After we got together, we discussed things and talked about how it came about (with my return),” he said.Germany will face Ivory Coast in their second Group E match in Toronto on June 20. The match is expected to be a key step in their push for knockout qualification after a dominant opening win.