Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer announces international retirement

Germany and Bayern Munich shot-stopper Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international football.

He made his international debut in 2009 and featured in eight major tournaments.

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Barcelona keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is the favourite to become the new number-one goalkeeper for Die Mannschaft.

Neuer represented Germany for 15 years, winning 124 caps, the last of which was on home soil during a Euro 2024 quarter-final defeat to eventual champions, Spain.

The 38-year-old’s announcement was made just two days after Ilkay Gundogan also announced his retirement from international football, with Thomas Muller and the retired Toni Kroos now unavailable to head coach Julian Nagelsmann as they made the same decision after Germany’s home Euros.

Manuel Neuer played a key role in his country winning the FIFA World Cup in 2014, a first win for his nation since West Germany’s 1990 title. He featured at four World Cups and four European Championships.

“The day had to come at some point. Today my career with the German national team ends,” Neuer said in a video on his Instagram. “Everyone who knows me knows that this decision wasn’t easy for me. I made my debut over 15 years ago against the UAE and was so nervous back then.

“We had many ups and downs. The highlight was obviously the World Cup win in Brazil. When I look back today, I’m very proud and grateful to have stood with my teammates on the pitch and to have been captain for seven years. To crown my career, I was able to come back from injury and play at a home Euros.”

“Anyone who knows me knows that I didn’t make this decision lightly. After many intense and long discussions with my family and friends, I have decided that right now is the right time to close my chapter.

“Looking back today, I am filled with pride and gratitude. Not least because on the 13th July 2014 we were able to fulfil our big dream and together became world champions in Brazil.

“For a total of 7 years and 61 games, I was allowed – up to my injury – to lead the German national team as captain on the field. An honour that I appreciated every time.

Neuer signed off his post with a “thank you”, saying he “loved wearing the national jersey”.

He has one year left on his contract at Bayern, who are now managed by former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany.

In a statement on social media, the German national team said: “For one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, all words seem too small. But they come from the heart: Thank you, Manu!

“Of course for your unique, outstanding successes. But especially for your camaraderie, your dedication, your inspiration for teammates and millions of fans and footballers all over the world. You changed the game of goalkeeping, you shaped it. Just like this team. Your team. As a support. As a captain. As a role model. As a world champion. As a friend. We will miss you!”