Will Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann take Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer to the World Cup?

DORTMUND, GERMANY - JUNE 29: Manuel Neuer of Germany and Julian Nagelsmann, Head Coach of Germany, celebrate after the team's victory and progression to the quarter final in the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Germany and Denmark at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 29, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer and Germany national coach Julian Nagelsmann have both made it clear multiple times that the world champion goalkeeper would not be playing at the 2026 World Cup.

However, a new report from Bild has a different idea. The report (as captured by @iMiaSanMia) says that despite what has been said, Nagelsmann could consider going back on his decision and reaching out to Neuer.

The reasoning behind the report has to do with Neuer’s recent performances. Neuer had one of the games of his career against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals, and should he keep up his performance level and his fitness levels, Nagelsmann could call him up next month. Germany faces Finland in their last home friendly on the last day of May before flying to the USA and playing their dress rehearsal against the Americans six days later.

Bild is also claiming that Neuer would be willing to wear the federal eagle once more should he get the chance. This would fall in line with his statements that his relationship with Nagelsmann is not bad, contrary to suspicion. However, considering Bild’s spotty accuracy, it would be wise not to take this new development too seriously.

Neuer had retired from the national team after EURO 2024. It remains to be seen whether he will roll back on that decision.