Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, a key figure in their 2014 World Cup victory, announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday at the age of 38.
Neuer, who has been with Bayern Munich throughout much of his career, earned 124 caps for Germany, captaining the team 61 times. His final appearance came in a quarter-final loss to eventual champions Spain at Euro 2024.
In a social media post, Neuer explained that while he had considered continuing until the 2026 World Cup, he ultimately decided that “now is the right time to take this step.”
Neuer was instrumental in Germany’s triumph at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper. As the epitome of the modern ‘sweeper-keeper,’ he transformed the role with his ability to venture far from the penalty area and his exceptional footwork, typically reserved for outfield players.
The decision to retire from international duty came after conversations with his family and a thorough discussion with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann on Wednesday morning.
Neuer stated that he intends to “focus entirely” on his club career with Bayern Munich, with whom he has won two Champions League titles and 11 Bundesliga championships. Notably, this season’s Champions League final will be held at Munich’s Allianz Arena.
After breaking his leg in a skiing accident in December 2022, Neuer only returned to the Germany squad shortly before Euro 2024, reclaiming his position as the first-choice goalkeeper. Despite facing criticism ahead of the tournament for mistakes at both club and international levels, he delivered impressive performances at Euro 2024.
From 2010 to 2016, Neuer helped Germany reach the final four in every major tournament. However, the team experienced disappointing exits in the group stages of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and was eliminated by England in the last 16 at Euro 2020. They finally won their first knockout match in eight years at Euro 2024.
Neuer follows in the footsteps of fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Müller and Toni Kroos, both of whom also retired from international football after Euro 2024. On Monday, current Germany captain Ilkay Gündogan, who missed the 2014 World Cup due to injury, also announced his retirement from international duty.
A product of the Schalke academy in his hometown of Gelsenkirchen, Neuer made his international debut in 2009 and holds the record for most caps by a German goalkeeper. Germany won 81 of the 124 matches in which Neuer played, and he kept 51 clean sheets.
Neuer’s retirement paves the way for Barcelona’s long-serving backup Marc-André ter Stegen, who is expected to succeed him as Germany’s new number one.
