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Manuel Neuer Leaves a Lasting Legacy on the German National Team

The 38-Year-Old Goalkeeper Announced His Retirement From the National Team on Social Media

· Aug 21 - 4 minutes read

A German Icon

Manuel Neuer has officially announced his retirement from the Germany national team to soccer news. At 38, Neuer ended a remarkable international career that spanned 15 years and included a World Cup victory in 2014. His retirement marks the end of an era for German football, as Neuer was the last remaining player from the squad that lifted the World Cup in Brazil.

Manuel Neuer Leaves a Lasting Legacy on the German National Team — Germany's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer - Ina FASSBENDER / AFP

Thank you to one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, @Manuel_Neuer! 🧤

From Germany’s 2014 World Cup win to his unmatched reflexes, Neuer has redefined goalkeeping, retiring with 124 caps and 51 clean sheets! 🖤❤️💛#DFB #GermanFootball #GermanMNT

📹 DFB pic.twitter.com/ySDagbQAH1

— German Football (@DFB_Team_EN) August 21, 2024

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Manuel Neuer’s impact on the game of football cannot be overstated. From the moment he debuted for Germany in 2009, it was clear that Neuer was no ordinary goalkeeper. He redefined the role, introducing the “sweeper-keeper” concept, a term that has since become commonplace in football discussions.

Neuer’s ability to act as an additional outfield player, often leaving his goal to intercept passes and clear the ball, revolutionized the position. This style of play, reminiscent of the legendary Franz Beckenbauer, set Neuer apart from his peers and made him a prototype for modern goalkeepers.

We give you: Manuel Neuer. The best goalkeeper in football history! 🐐 pic.twitter.com/ZgU6MdQHoI

— DW Sports (@dw_sports) August 21, 2024

Neuer’s legacy is not just about his technical skills, though. His leadership on and off the pitch has been invaluable to the German national team. After Bastian Schweinsteiger’s retirement in 2016, Neuer was handed the captain’s armband, a role he embraced with pride and responsibility.

The End of an Era

Neuer’s decision to retire from international football was undoubtedly difficult. In a heartfelt message shared on his Instagram page, Neuer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and lead the team as captain. “Everyone who knows me knows that this decision was not easy,” he said. “Winning the World Cup in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championships at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful. It was an honor for me to be captain of our national team.”

✨ 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄 ✨

Fußball-Deutschland ist dir auf ewig dankbar, @Manuel_Neuer. 🐐🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/Av82ywjKuK

— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) August 21, 2024

Neuer’s retirement leaves a significant void in the German national team, not just in terms of his goalkeeping prowess but also in terms of leadership. With Neuer stepping down, the question of who will take over the captaincy is now up for discussion. Joshua Kimmich, a player who has already shown leadership qualities on the field, is widely mentioned by soccer rumors as the frontrunner for the role. Kimmich’s ability to inspire his teammates and his tactical understanding of the game make him a strong candidate to carry forward the legacy of Neuer’s leadership.

Nagelsmann now faces the decision of who will step up as Germany’s new number one. Marc-Andre ter Stegen of Barcelona, who has long served as Neuer’s understudy, is eager to claim the starting role. Meanwhile, Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann, who was also part of Nagelsmann’s 2024 Euro squad, is another strong contender.

What’s Next for Neuer?

While Neuer has hung up his international boots, he is far from done with football. He remains under contract with Bayern Munich until the end of the 2024-2025 season, with his sights set on one final achievement: reaching the UCL final at the Allianz Arena.