Germany recalls goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, from international retirement to join its squad for the 2026 World Cup, multiple outlets report. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann includes Neuer in the tournament squad after asking him to return to the national team. Several reports state that Nagelsmann names Neuer as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper for the competition, designating him as the team’s No 1. The decision is presented as a reversal of Neuer’s earlier retirement from international football, which several outlets place in 2024. Sources also note that Nagelsmann had previously preferred Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann as his first-choice, and that the World Cup keeper selection process involved considering the “best three” goalkeepers before contacting Neuer. While the reports differ slightly in wording, they broadly agree on the key outcome: Neuer is back in the Germany setup for the World Cup and is expected to start between the posts. The news is framed as a significant comeback for Neuer, who continues to play club football for Bayern Munich.