Germany's goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday, ending his 15-year career with Die Mannschaft. Neuer is the fourth German player to retire from international football since Euro 2024.
The 38-year-old Bayern goalkeeper played 124 matches for Germany, captaining his country 61 times. His final appearance came in the quarter-final loss to eventual champions Spain at Euro 2024.
"Everyone who knows me knows that this decision was not easy for me. I feel very good physically and of course the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico would have been very appealing to me. At the same time, I am convinced that now is exactly the right time to take this step and to concentrate fully on FC Bayern Munich in the future. It was a great time that shaped me and of which I am very proud. Winning the World Cup in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championships at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful. It was an honour for me to be captain of our national team until 2023. I loved wearing the jersey of the German national team."
Neuer confirmed his decision in his video on Instagram, stating,