Neuer explicitly denies returning to the national team and confirms not to participate in the 2026 World Cup

Hupu September 13th, 39-year-old Bayern goalkeeper Neuer completely ruled out the possibility of returning to the national team to participate in the 2026 World Cup.

After Bayern Munich beat Hamburg 5-0, Neuer made it clear in an interview with Germany Sky Sports: "My agent and I have never talked about this topic. The fact is that I have decided not to play for the national team anymore."

When the reporter asked whether this decision "will not change anyway", Neuer firmly replied: "Yes."

Neuer announced his withdrawal from the national team after the 2024 European Cup. Earlier this week, he responded to relevant rumors at the reception event of the Bavarian state government: "This is a decision I made consciously. I have withdrawn and will not play for the national team anymore. This issue is not within the scope of discussion."

It is worth noting that Neuer's agent's previous statement in the Frankfurt Report once triggered speculation about returning: "If Nagelsmann encounters problems in the goalkeeper position and Neuer is in good shape and is called up, he will certainly not refuse." This remark was also echoed by Bayern legend Heness and some experts.

German legend Mattus said: "Now he has no way out. All Germany may want him to return, but he has said no. This surprised me a little. He has experienced a trough after he recovered from injury, but he is now playing at a world-class level."