According to *Kicker* magazine, there are growing signs within the German Football Association (DFB) that head coach Julian Nagelsmann may include Manuel Neuer in the final World Cup squad. The internal discussions surrounding the veteran goalkeeper’s return to the national team have been far more heated and extensive than what Nagelsmann has publicly suggested. Bayern Munich is also aware of the developments.
On Monday, the DFB must submit a provisional 55-man squad list to FIFA, which must include at least five goalkeepers. While this list will not be made public, it is widely speculated that Neuer’s name appears on it. Other expected goalkeepers on the list include Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, Stefan Dähne, and Jonas Urbig.
Nagelsmann and Neuer have repeatedly emphasized that they maintain a good relationship and stay in regular contact. Their relationship faced a notable strain in January 2023 when Nagelsmann, then Bayern’s manager, dismissed Neuer’s long-time goalkeeper coach Toni Tapalović during Neuer’s recovery from a severe leg injury. However, those issues have since been resolved. The final German squad for the World Cup will be announced by Nagelsmann on May 21.
The decision has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike, given Neuer’s experience and leadership, but also considering his age and injury history. With the World Cup on the horizon, Nagelsmann faces a delicate balancing act between loyalty and tactical pragmatism. The inclusion of Neuer could provide a major boost to team morale, while also raising questions about the development of younger goalkeepers like Nübel.