At the age of 38, Manuel Neuer, the Germany goalkeeper and 2014 World Cup winner, announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday.
Neuer, who played 124 matches for Germany and captained the team 61 times, made his final appearance in the quarter-final loss to Spain at Euro 2024.
Despite being tempted to play until the 2026 World Cup, Neuer took to social media to announce that he believes now is the right time to retire.
Known for his standout performance at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper, Neuer has had a successful career.
He recently returned to the Germany squad after recovering from a leg injury sustained in a skiing accident in December 2022.
Despite facing criticism for some mistakes at club and international levels, Neuer impressed at the Euro 2024 on home soil. The Champions League final will be held this season at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena.
“It was a great time which shaped me and of which I am very proud,” he said.
“Winning the World Cup title in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championship at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful.
“It was an honour for me to be captain of our national team until 2023. I loved wearing the Germany jersey.”
