Bayern Munich star set to extend international career

Bayern Munich skipper Manuel Neuer reportedly has no plans to hang his boots at the international level as he plans to play for Germany later this year.

Despite getting knocked out in the quarter-final against Spain, Euro 2024 was a positive tournament for Germany. Julian Nagelsmann managed to implement an astute style of football, allowing Germany to go toe to toe with the eventual winners Spain. The former Bayern Munich head coach now has the job of rebuilding the squad after the retirement of several senior players.

Toni Kroos has retired from football altogether after the Euros, while Thomas Muller announced his retirement from international football after the tournament. İlkay Gündoğan also announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday. Germany has lost a lot of experience in these three players.

Manuel Neuer is one senior German player who is not in a rush to bring the curtains down on his illustrious career. According to Bild, Neuer has decided to continue with the German national team. Neuer wants to play in the 2026 World Cup before making a final decision on his international career.

Nagelsmann will be fine with keeping Neuer in the squad. Despite turning 38 earlier this year, Neuer remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world. With the wealth of experience lost in the squad, Nagelsmann will be pleased with Neuer’s decision to continue playing for Germany.

DFB sporting director Rudi Völler had previously insisted that a final decision from Neuer needs to come before the international break in September. Bild has reported that Neuer will take a break during September and return to the German squad in the next international break.

Neuer unlikely to be a contender for captaincy

After Gündoğan announced retirement from international football, DFB and Nagelsmann have to pick a new captain. Neuer was not appointed as skipper for Germany under Nagelsmann, so he is unlikely to be a contender to succeed Gündoğan.