Neuer is No. 1 again
The German national team is set to begin the 2026 World Cup with Manuel Neuer as their starting goalkeeper. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann announced that Neuer will lead the team in the opening group stage match against Curaçao.
During the pre-match press conference, Nagelsmann clarified that the decision was made solely for sporting reasons. This comes as Neuer has not represented the national team since the summer of 2024.
Yes, Neuer will be in the starting lineup. He is in great shape. All the players are healthy, there are no issues, said the Bundesteam coach.
This decision has generated some debate, given that Oliver Baumann was the primary goalkeeper throughout the qualification campaign. Baumann had previously expressed disappointment at the prospect of losing his position ahead of the World Cup.
The match between Germany and Curaçao is scheduled for June 15 and will mark the Bundesteam’s first encounter in the 2026 World Cup.