Neuer has no regrets over Germany return despite early World Cup exit

Manuel Neuer has stated that he doesn't regret coming out of international retirement to play for Germany at the World Cup, even though the tournament didn't go according to plan for the team.

Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images

After careful consideration, Manuel Neuer chose to return to the German national team to represent his country one final time at the 2026 World Cup.

Ultimately, it all ended in disappointment, as Germany crashed out in the round of 32 on penalties against Paraguay. Despite this, the 40-year-old Bayern Munich veteran doesn't regret his decision.

“It has always been an honour! Being eliminated early from the World Cup is extremely disappointing. We clearly fell short of expectations and should have gone further in this tournament. This ending hurts a lot,” Neuer wrote in an Instagram statement.

“I made a very conscious decision to play for Germany again. On the one hand, because it has always filled me with deep pride to wear the national team jersey. On the other, because at 40 years old and with the experience of four World Cups, I also wanted to support the younger players in the best possible way, both on and off the pitch, and help German football.

“Despite the bitter ending, I do not regret this decision for a second. My disappointment is beyond words, but there remains great gratitude. Thank you for your support over all the years and throughout this tournament.”

Neuer’s time as a Germany international has now come to an end once and for all. He represented his country 128 times at senior level.