Bayern Munich's Manuel Neuer has made a notable return from international retirement, being named Germany's first-choice goalkeeper for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Manager Julian Nagelsmann confirmed that the 40-year-old will lead the team in the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Neuer's Experience and Legacy

Neuer, who has previously earned 124 caps for Germany, last represented his country in a Euro 2024 quarter-final match against Spain. Following that defeat, he announced his retirement from international football, having been a key figure in Germany's triumph at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Nagelsmann praised Neuer's presence, stating, "Everyone knows the aura and quality Manu has, what he brings to a team," and emphasized the team's plans to rely on him as their primary goalkeeper.

Germany's Squad Composition

In addition to Neuer, Nagelsmann's 26-man squad features five players from the Premier League, including Arsenal's Kai Havertz, Brighton's Pascal Gross, and Liverpool's Florian Wirtz. The squad also includes Bayern's 18-year-old Lennart Karl and Galatasaray's Leroy Sane. Germany, a four-time World Cup champion, will kick off their campaign against Curacao on June 14, followed by matches against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador in Group E.

Since their last World Cup victory in 2014, Germany has faced challenges, exiting in the group stage in both the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. Nagelsmann reiterated the team's ambition, declaring, "The statement stands. We want to become world champions. Every player who is nominated needs to show it now every day."