Manuel Neuer ends Germany career after World Cup exit

Manuel Neuer has announced that his Germany career is over after the national team’s 2026 World Cup elimination. The Bayern Munich goalkeeper said he does not regret returning for one final tournament despite a painful early exit.

Germany were knocked out by Paraguay in the round of 32 after losing a 4-3 penalty shootout. For Neuer, now 40, the defeat closed a second international comeback after he had previously stepped away following Euro 2024.

Neuer framed his return as a deliberate choice, saying he wanted to help younger teammates and contribute to German football with his experience from multiple World Cups. His message mixed disappointment at the result with gratitude toward supporters.

For editors and fans, the bigger question is how Germany manages the transition from one of its defining modern goalkeepers. Neuer’s departure adds another layer to the debate over the national team’s direction after another major-tournament setback.