Shock as "World Cup Legend" eyes 2026 World Cup title despite having retired from the national team.
On 15 May 2026, Sky Sports Germany reported a surprise from the "Die Mannschaft"—Germany's national football team—after announcing their initial 55-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from 11 June to 19 July.
It was revealed that Julian Nagelsmann, Germany's head coach, included Manuel Neuer in the initial 55-player list submitted to FIFA, despite the Bayern Munich goalkeeper, aged 40, having announced his retirement from international football after Euro 2024.
Sources state that Germany named five goalkeepers in their preliminary squad, with Manuel Neuer among them. It remains to be seen who will be selected for the final three spots. The other goalkeepers previously called up include Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Alexander Nubel (Stuttgart), Jonas Urbig (Bayern), and Finn Dahmen (Augsburg).
Julian Nagelsmann is set to announce the final 26-man German squad for the 2026 World Cup on 21 May.
Manuel Neuer was a key figure in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning team in Brazil, where they edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time. He also won the Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
