Manuel Neuer has refused to fuel talk of a surprise return to Germany’s national team for the 2026 World Cup, but the Bayern Munich captain also stopped short of shutting the door completely.
The 2014 World Cup winner stepped away from international football after Euro 2024. But with questions still around Germany’s goalkeeping future, his strong season with Bayern has sparked fresh speculation.
Neuer recently signed a one year contract extension with Bayern and remains one of the country’s top performers at 40.
Speaking after Bayern’s final Bundesliga match against Cologne, Neuer said he has not been in contact with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann about any comeback.
“No, not right now. We stay in touch all year round, just like with other former coaches and officials,” Neuer said.
When asked directly about a possible place in Germany’s World Cup squad, Neuer made it clear his focus remains on Bayern for now.
“I’m totally relaxed about it. We’re celebrating the championship today. I have a very important German Cup final next week.”
He again played down the topic by saying the World Cup is not something he is thinking about at this stage.
“For me the World Cup is not an issue today. It is just nice to celebrate the league title and to have the match next week.”
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann is set to name his World Cup squad on May 21.
Neuer and Bayern still have one more major target this season as they prepare for the German Cup final against Stuttgart on May 23.
Bayern missed out on the Champions League final after losing to Paris Saint Germain in the semi finals, but Neuer can still help his club finish the season with a domestic double.
