Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
August 2025
Despite retiring after Euro 2024, Manuel Neuer could return for Germany’s 2026 World Cup campaign. DFB sporting director Rudi Völler has contacted the Bayern goalkeeper after doubts over Marc-André ter Stegen, who lost his Barcelona spot and remains sidelined post-surgery. Ter Stegen was long Neuer’s natural successor but is now benched by new signing Joan Garcia at Barcelona. With his fitness and form uncertain, the DFB sees Neuer’s potential recall as a contingency to stabilize Germany’s goalkeeping options ahead of 2026.