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After 15 years of guarding Germany’s goal, Manuel Neuer has decided to hang up his international gloves.
The 38-year-old legend announced his retirement from the national team on Wednesday. This brings an illustrious international career to a close, though he will continue to play for Bayern Munich.
Neuer, one of the most iconic goalkeepers of his generation, first donned the German jersey in 2009. Over the next decade and a half, he would become a linchpin for the national team. His defining moment came in 2014 when he helped Germany lift the World Cup.
Known for his “sweeper-keeper” style, Neuer redefined the role of a goalkeeper, blending traditional shot-stopping with the instincts of an outfield player.
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His last appearance for Germany was a 2-1 extra-time defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, a tournament hosted on home soil. Despite the bitter end, Neuer’s influence on the game and his nation remains undeniable.
The decision to retire wasn’t easy for Neuer. He admitted he was enticed by the thought of one final campaign at the 2026 World Cup in North America. However, after deep reflection and conversations with those closest to him, he chose to step away. He definitely leaves behind a legacy that few can match.
Neuer’s departure paves the way for Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen to finally claim the No. 1 spot for Germany. Ter Stegen has long been poised to take over the role anyways.
The icon’s retirement marks the second high-profile exit from Germany’s national team within a week. Ilkay Gündogan, who captained the team at Euro 2024, also called time on his international career. The 33-year-old midfielder cited exhaustion from the relentless demands of club and country.
Thomas Müller, another stalwart of German football, had already made his exit from the international stage just a month ago.
As Germany looks toward a future without these pillars of its golden generation, Neuer’s absence will be felt most keenly. But in Bayern Munich, he remains a beacon of experience and excellence.
Tags: Manuel Neuer, Germany, Bayern Munich, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcsports, #NewsRoundTheClock, #Neuer, #Euro2024.
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