The debate over the future of the Mannschaft is back on the table, and one name stands out: Manuel Neuer. The veteran Bayern Munich goalkeeper, who retired from the German national team after Euro 2024, could once again be considered by Julian Nagelsmann amid a climate of doubts and criticism surrounding the team.

Germany in crisis and in need of leaders

The start of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup exposed the German team’s shortcomings. A 2-0 defeat against Slovakia and a hard-fought win over Northern Ireland raised alarms. Respected voices such as Bastian Schweinsteiger and Toni Kroos have pointed to the lack of character, confidence, and players capable of leading the squad.

In that context, Neuer’s return began to surface as a possible solution. His agent, Thomas Kroth, told Frankfurter Rundschau that if the German coach considers there to be an issue in goal, the 39-year-old keeper “would not reject” a call-up. These remarks fueled the debate over whether the legendary goalkeeper should come back to provide experience and leadership at a delicate time.

Neuer shuts the door, but Hoeneß insists

Despite the rumors, Manuel Neuer himself recently stated that he has no intention of returning to the national team. “I had a very fruitful and enjoyable spell, and I don’t ask myself at all whether I should come back. That is out of the question,” said the goalkeeper at an event at the Bavarian State Chancellery.

However, pressure is evident from within Bayern Munich. Honorary president Uli Hoeneß was blunt: “The best must be at a World Cup. And Manuel is the best. That’s why he should play if he’s in good condition.”

Meanwhile, Julian Nagelsmann has placed his trust in Marc-André ter Stegen, although his situation at FC Barcelona, where he has slipped down the goalkeeping hierarchy, could reignite the debate. At the same time, Oliver Baumann has performed solidly in recent games, but the discussion remains open.

The future will determine whether outside pressure changes Neuer’s decision, or whether the Mannschaft will definitively commit to the new generation in a cycle that has yet to find a clear direction.