Germany’s legendary goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, has retired from international football at 38. The Bayern Munich veteran, who revolutionized the modern goalkeeper role, played 124 matches for Germany and captained the team 61 times. His last game was the quarter-final loss to Spain in Euro 2024.
A Storied Career Ends
Manuel Neuer announced his retirement on social media, revealing he had thought about playing until the 2026 World Cup. However, he felt now was the right time to step down. After discussing with his family and talking with Germany’s coach, Julian Nagelsmann, Neuer decided to focus on his club career with Bayern Munich.
Neuer’s career is full of achievements, including winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. He earned the title of best goalkeeper in the tournament, helping Germany secure their fourth World Cup. Neuer’s ‘sweeper-keeper’ style redefined the goalkeeper position, as he often left his penalty box to intercept attacks and displayed outfield-level footwork.
A Legacy of Excellence
Manuel Neuer’s retirement marks the end of an era for Germany. He follows fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Müller and Toni Kroos, who also retired after Euro 2024. Recently, Ilkay Gündogan, the current Germany captain, announced his international retirement too.
Neuer debuted for Germany in 2009, having risen through Schalke’s academy in Gelsenkirchen, his hometown. Over his 15-year international career, he became Germany’s most-capped goalkeeper, recording 81 wins and 51 clean sheets in 124 matches.
Challenges and Triumphs
Neuer faced challenges, especially in recent years. He broke his leg in a skiing accident in December 2022, just before Euro 2024. Despite the injury, he recovered in time to reclaim his spot as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper for the tournament. Though he received criticism for some mistakes at the club and international levels before Euro 2024, Neuer impressed during the competition.
Neuer’s career saw consistent success. From 2010 to 2016, he and the German team reached the final four in every major tournament. However, the team struggled with early exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and a last-16 loss to England at Euro 2020. Germany broke this streak by winning their first knockout match in eight years at Euro 2024.
A New Era for Germany’s Goalkeeping
With Neuer’s retirement, Marc-André ter Stegen of Barcelona will likely become Germany’s new number one goalkeeper. Ter Stegen, who has served as Neuer’s backup for years, now has the opportunity to lead Germany’s defense in future tournaments.
Manuel Neuer’s retirement is a significant moment in football. As one of the greatest goalkeepers steps down from international duty, his influence on the position and his contributions to Germany will be remembered. As Neuer continues his career with Bayern Munich, fans will eagerly watch him continue to impact the sport. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
