Manuel Neuer has reportedly earned a spot in Julian Nagelsmann's 55-man provisional squad for the 2026 World Cup, according to Sky Sport. The FC Bayern Munich goalkeeper, now 40, met personally with the national team manager to discuss a potential return. This preliminary list, submitted to FIFA by last Monday, sets the pool from which the final roster will emerge next Thursday.
Neuer's Path Back to International Duty
Neuer boasts 124 caps for Germany, including the 2014 World Cup triumph. He rejoined the squad in 2024 following a quarter-final exit to Spain at the home European Championship. Persistent injuries to Marc-André ter Stegen, his designated successor, combined with Neuer's reliable form at Bayern, have reignited calls for his recall. Bayern president Herbert Hainer praised Neuer's recent displays at the Women's DFB Cup final in Cologne, calling him an outstanding goalkeeper even at 40, while deferring the final call to Neuer and Nagelsmann.
Competition in the Goalkeeping Ranks
Nagelsmann tested Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, and Finn Dahmen in March friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana. The 35-year-old Baumann has emerged as the manager's preferred choice, starting in Nations League matches and World Cup qualifiers. Inclusion in the provisional squad does not guarantee Neuer's place in the finals starting June 11 across the USA, Mexico, and Canada, but it positions him as a viable option amid ongoing evaluations.
Upcoming Fixtures Shape Final Decisions
Germany faces critical tests ahead of the tournament. The schedule includes a friendly against Finland on Sunday, May 31 at 8:45 pm, followed by the USA on Saturday, June 6 at 8:30 pm. World Cup group stage matches pit them against Curaçao on Sunday, June 14 at 7:00 pm, Ivory Coast on Saturday, June 20 at 10:00 pm, and Ecuador on Thursday, June 25 at 10:00 pm. Performances here, alongside recovery from any setbacks, will influence Nagelsmann's choices from the provisional list.
Implications for Germany's Campaign
Neuer's potential involvement revives a blend of experience and leadership for a squad aiming to rebound on the global stage. At 40, his selection underscores the value of veteran presence in high-stakes tournaments, especially with younger options still proving consistency. Fans await Thursday's announcement, which will clarify whether the record-breaking keeper returns for one last major push.