The Return of Manuel Neuer: A Comeback Story 709 Days in the Making
After months of conversations and numerous fresh fitness reports, the moment has finally arrived on Sunday: Manuel Neuer will make his return in the German national team shirt exactly 709 days after his 124th and, until now, final international appearance for Germany.
The fact that Neuer has been dealing with calf issues and has not had any game time prior to the opener against Curacao is not a concern for DFB coach Julian Nagelsmann. "At his age, he does not need to acclimatise. He can cope with the pressure," the coach declared.
There Are Also Concerns
Neuer's late comeback did not escape public criticism. The fact that Oliver Baumann was the first-choice goalkeeper throughout the entire World Cup qualification and also featured in goal for the friendlies against Finland (4-0) and the warm-up match against the USA (2-1) left some observers baffled.
The decision "should have been communicated more clearly," said former national goalkeeper Rene Adler.
"That was not handled well," explained the ZDF expert.
Neuer played his last international match in the quarterfinal exit at the home Euro 2024 against eventual European champions Spain (1-2 after extra time). He subsequently retired from the national team. With the Curacao match, he will become the oldest German international in history.
Even Superstars Break a Sweat Against Neuer
But of course, everyone is aware of Manuel Neuer's incredible aura.
Back in 2010, when Germany played thrilling attacking football and reached the semifinals, the five time World Goalkeeper of the Year played a key role. Four years later, when Germany won the title, Neuer became a legend.
His spectacular performance in the round of 16 against Algeria changed goalkeeping forever. Neuer transformed into a sweeper keeper, boldly rushing out of his box, displaying his footballing skills, and cutting out dangerous counterattacks, paving the way for Germany's fourth World Cup trophy.
Although at 40 he takes fewer risks than in his younger days and regularly struggles with injuries, his class is beyond dispute. His performance in the quarterfinal against Real Madrid, when he frustrated Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior with dozens of world class saves, is ample evidence.
"When a Vinicius is running alone at Manuel," said record international Lothar Matthaus, "he already gets a little nervous."
Jonathan Tah confirmed this: "You just have this awe: That is Manuel Neuer."