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Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has officially announced that Manuel Neuer will be his first-choice goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup. The Bayern Munich icon has made the dramatic decision to return from international retirement to lead Die Mannschaft in North America.

Nagelsmann confirms his World Cup goalkeeper

Nagelsmann has decided to rely on Neuer’s vast experience for the World Cup to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Although the 40-year-old goalkeeper had previously stepped away from international football after Euro 2024, he is now preparing for one final tournament at the highest level.

During the official announcement of Germany’s squad, Nagelsmann was clear when asked about his preferred option between the posts. “Yes, I am planning for him,” the coach said, as quoted by Sky Sports. He further emphasised Neuer’s influence within the team, explaining, “Everyone knows the kind of aura Manu brings. In my view, this decision is the right one.”

Setback for Oliver Baumann

The decision represents a major disappointment for Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. With Marc-Andre ter Stegen sidelined due to injury, Baumann had appeared to be the leading candidate to start the tournament. However, with Neuer’s return, he will again have to accept a back-up role.

Nagelsmann admitted that informing Baumann of the decision was not easy, describing it as “a blow” for the player. Nevertheless, the coach praised Baumann’s professionalism, calling him a “world-class 1b” and noting that the 35-year-old’s reaction demonstrated his full commitment to the squad’s success regardless of his position in the hierarchy.

Decision followed extensive internal debate

The process of bringing Neuer back into the national fold was not straightforward. Nagelsmann revealed that the coaching staff held extensive discussions before finalising the squad, carefully balancing Neuer’s recent fitness record with his exceptional experience and leadership. The goalkeeping group will also include Jonas Urbig, who will travel with the team as a training partner to assist the unit’s preparation.

“There were an extreme number of discussions,” Nagelsmann said, adding that “the internal discussions are finished.”

Germany’s path towards the 2026 World Cup

Germany’s build-up now intensifies with back-to-back friendlies against Finland in Mainz and the USMNT in Chicago. These fixtures will act as the final tests for Neuer and his teammates before the squad heads to its base in Winston-Salem to begin their Group E campaign.

Die Mannschaft face a challenging group stage, having been drawn alongside Curacao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. With Joshua Kimmich set to captain the side and Neuer reinstated as the starting goalkeeper, Nagelsmann is counting on a combination of senior leadership and tactical depth to push for Germany’s fifth World Cup title.