Manuel Neuer Announces Retirement After FIFA World Cup 2026

In a recent press conference, German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer announced that he will retire after the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 40-year-old, who has been a pivotal player in Germany's football history, confirmed this will be his last tournament. Neuer, who previously stepped back from international play after Euro 2024, made a surprising return to the World Cup squad. He aims to focus on the upcoming matches rather than farewells, as Germany prepares for their next game against the Ivory Coast. Read on to discover more about Neuer's journey and his plans for the future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 03:53 IST

Manuel Neuer's Retirement Announcement

Toronto [Canada], June 19: Manuel Neuer, the seasoned goalkeeper from Germany, has revealed that he will retire following the FIFA World Cup 2026. He made this announcement during a press conference held on Thursday (local time).

The 40-year-old, who was a key player in Germany's victorious 2014 World Cup team, is set to participate in his fifth consecutive World Cup as the primary goalkeeper. He had previously stepped back from international play after Germany's quarter-final exit at Euro 2024, which took place on home soil.

Neuer's selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup came as a surprise when coach Julian Nagelsmann included him in the squad, especially after his strong performance in the latter half of the season with Bayern Munich.

During the press conference, Neuer stated, “I stepped back in 2024 for a good reason after a successful home Euro. It felt like the right choice.” He added, “Continuing to play for the national team over the last two years would have been too much of a sporting burden for me.”

He emphasized, “It is clear to me that this will be my final tournament. I do not intend to participate in the next Euro in two years. Recently, I have come to terms with the fact that these are my last matches for Germany. However, I want to focus on the upcoming games rather than any farewell gestures.”

Neuer was chosen over Oliver Baumann, who was initially set to be Germany's first-choice goalkeeper before Neuer's return.

He made his comeback in Germany's opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 against Curacao, where he helped secure a dominant 7-1 victory.

“We collaborate with Oliver. We support one another and train for the team. After reuniting, we discussed how my return came about,” Neuer remarked.

Germany's next challenge will be against the Ivory Coast in their second Group E match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled for June 20 (local time) in Toronto. This match is crucial for Germany as they aim to build on their impressive opening victory and solidify their standing in the group as they pursue knockout stage qualification.