Germany coach reinstates Neuer as starting keeper for World Cup bid

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has confirmed Manuel Neuer as the starting goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup, a decision that marks a significant reversal of his previous preference for Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann. The announcement, made at a press conference, solidifies the 40-year-old Bayern Munich player’s return to the national team after he had retired from international football following Euro 2024.

Nagelsmann stated that the primary objective was to select the three best goalkeepers for the final 26-man squad, which also includes Baumann and Alexander Nubel. When asked directly about his intentions for the tournament, the coach confirmed, “Yes, I plan with that [with Neuer as number one].” He explained that the national team contacted Neuer to ask if he wished to return to the squad, to which he agreed.

The selection allows Neuer to participate in his fifth consecutive World Cup, placing him in an elite group of players who have competed in five or more tournaments. A winner of the 2014 World Cup, Neuer’s return comes shortly after he signed a contract extension with Bayern Munich last week, ahead of their German Cup final against VfB Stuttgart.

Beyond the goalkeeping position, Nagelsmann highlighted the cohesion of the squad, noting that many players have been playing together since their youth. The final list includes notable call-ups such as teenage Bayern player Lennart Karl, Nadiem Amiri, and Leroy Sane. Kai Havertz also features in the squad, becoming the sixth Arsenal player selected for the tournament.

Germany are drawn in Group E, where they will face Curacao, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast. Following shock first-round exits in the 2018 and 2022 editions, Nagelsmann declared the team’s objective clearly. “The statement stands,” he said. “We want to become world champions. Every player who is nominated needs to show it now every day.”