Nagelsmann confirms Neuer as Germany’s World Cup number one after retirement U-turn

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann confirmed on 21 May 2026 that Manuel Neuer will start in goal at next month’s FIFA World Cup, completing the 40-year-old’s return from international retirement. The decision ends months of debate over the position. Neuer is now on course for a fifth successive World Cup.

Nagelsmann had previously indicated Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann was leading the race, but said he now plans with Neuer as the first choice. Neuer arrives after a strong club season and a recent contract extension with Bayern Munich.

Nagelsmann said the staff contacted Neuer about a comeback and stressed that the priority was selecting the best three goalkeepers for the squad. Neuer, a 2014 World Cup winner, reclaims the role he held across four tournaments and adds one of the team’s most experienced voices. He is set to be joined in the goalkeeping trio by Baumann and Alexander Nubel.

The coach framed his 26-man list as a balanced group blending experience with emerging talent. The squad features Bayern’s teenage player Lennart Karl after a rapid rise this season, along with Nadiem Amiri and Leroy Sane, who had been viewed as outside candidates. “We want to become world champions,” Nagelsmann said, adding that every player named must show that ambition every day.

Germany, a four-time World Cup winner, is targeting a fifth title after first-round exits in 2018 and 2022. The team has been drawn in Group E with Curacao, Ecuador and Ivory Coast for the expanded 2026 tournament, which kicks off next month.

Goalkeeper hierarchy clarified before camp

Nagelsmann had long praised Baumann’s consistency, but Neuer’s return shifts the pecking order before the tournament. The coach said his main task was to nominate the top three keepers and confirmed he now plans with Neuer as number one.

Neuer’s experience to guide build-up play

With the decision made ahead of final preparations, Germany can focus training on relationships between the goalkeeper, back line and midfield anchors. Neuer’s distribution and command of the penalty area have been hallmarks of his international career and will shape how Germany builds from the back in the group stage.

Squad balance and Group E outlook

Nagelsmann presented a roster he described as a good mix, citing players who have developed together since youth level and others who surged this season. Karl’s call-up underscores that pathway, while Amiri and Sane add flexibility across the attacking and wide roles.

Germany’s target: a fifth world title

After consecutive early exits, the staff has stressed clarity of roles and intensity in camp to avoid past pitfalls. Group E presents contrasting styles, and Germany will look to establish rhythm quickly to control the section.

Germany will finalise preparations in the coming weeks before opening Group E play next month, with Neuer’s status settled and squad roles sharpening during training.