SOCCER: Bayern keeper Neuer's masterclass reignites national team discussion

BERLIN — Bayern Munich’s veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer delivered a masterclass performance in Tuesday’s 2-1 Champions League quarter-final first-leg victory over Real Madrid, reigniting discussions about a possible return to the German national team ahead of the World Cup in June.

The 40-year-old World Cup winner, who retired from international duty in 2024, has been on the minds of many German fans. With Oliver Baumann currently Germany’s first-choice keeper, and Jonas Urbig and Alexander Nuebel likely replacements for the tournament, Neuer’s name has resurfaced as debate grows. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is unavailable due to consecutive injuries.

In Tuesday’s thrilling encounter, Neuer — Germany’s starting goalkeeper for 14 years — produced a series of spectacular saves, repeatedly denying Real top scorers Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr in one-on-one situations. His heroics preserved Bayern’s slim lead and earned him man-of-the-match honors.

German pundits heaped praise on Neuer, with many calling for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. Even Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa highlighted his performance.

"I think Neuer was MVP," Arbeloa said. "We had so many chances to score more goals, but we didn’t do it."

Germany has historically had a strong pool of goalkeepers, but the national team has struggled for consistency since Neuer’s retirement. With the 2026 World Cup set to kick off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and Germany eager to improve after first-round exits in 2018 and 2022, calls for Neuer’s return are growing louder.

Neuer’s relationship with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has at times appeared strained. When asked in an interview days ago if he had congratulated Neuer on his 40th birthday, Nagelsmann admitted he didn’t know. The coach has repeatedly ruled out any attempt to lure Neuer out of retirement.

After Tuesday’s performance, Neuer was again asked about a potential national team return.

"We don’t need to bring that up at all," Neuer told reporters.

"Where did we play today? That was a sensational game. We’re not talking about the national team now. I’ve said my piece and I’m concentrating on Bayern here."

While Neuer focuses on club football, Bayern remains in contention for three titles this season. Performances like Tuesday’s, however, add pressure on Nagelsmann.

"To be honest, I am not surprised by his performance," said Bayern’s director of sport, Max Eberl. "Manuel has been playing at this level all season. He saved us today on several occasions."

Asked about a potential national team return, Eberl added: "I am not in charge of the national team coach."

-Reporting by Karolos Grohmann; Editing by Kim Coghill/Reuters