Prior to the start of Euro 2024, there was significant speculation on whether Manuel Neuer or Marc-André ter Stegen would be Julian Nagelsmann’s number one for the start of the tournament.
Having made costly errors for Bayern Munich and Germany in the weeks leading up to Euro 2024, there were calls for ter Stagen to be given the nod over Neuer. However, ultimately, Nagelsmann chose the Bayern shot-stopper, who failed to disappoint.
Nevertheless, after Germany were eliminated by eventual champions Spain at the quarter-final stage, Neuer hinted towards a possible international retirement, which would leave the door open for ter Stagen:
“I said I would think about it after the tournament. It’s not today or tomorrow. It could take half a year or longer.”
But, just weeks after the tournament’s conclusion, Neuer has once again commented on his future with the German national team:
“You always think about things, and I’ve been able to do that recently too. I was very happy and satisfied. Not with the elimination, of course, but with the way we performed as a team and how we got together with the fans. During the holiday, many people came up to me and thanked me for the great time we had together this summer. It was all positive.”
“It is not yet time for me to announce anything or say how things will proceed. A few more discussions have to take place, and then I have to be clear about what I want.”
While it is currently unknown whether Neuer will announce his international retirement like Bayern teammate Thomas Müller, the 38-year-old did hint about a possible hiatus.
“Toni also took a bit of a longer break and then came back for the tournament.”
Could Neuer be considering following in Toni Kroos’ footsteps by taking a break from international football until the 2026 World Cup?
As it stands, his future is unknown, but there would be little surprise if Neuer decided to take time away from the Germany set-up.
GGFN | Will Shopland
