Bayern Munich's Manuel Neuer has ended his international retirement to be Germany's first-choice goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup. Manager Julian Nagelsmann confirmed the 40-year-old will start, citing his enduring quality and leadership. Neuer, who earned his 124th and final cap at Euro 2024, helped Bayern win the Bundesliga and reach the Champions League semis this season.

His recall makes him the latest veteran, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, selected for a tournament spanning Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Neuer becomes the first German keeper to feature in five World Cups. Nagelsmann stated plainly, "We're planning with him as our number one," underscoring a decisive break from grooming a successor.

This choice reshapes Germany's goalkeeping landscape, prioritizing experience over youth for a summer showcase. Neuer's presence provides stability and a winning mentality, though questions about his long-term mobility persist. His role as the undisputed starter is now fixed, setting the roster's defensive tone.