Manuel Neuer says he has no regrets about returning from international retirement for Germany’s 2026 World Cup despite their painful Round of 32 exit to Paraguay.
Manuel Neuer insists he has no regrets about coming out of international retirement for one final FIFA World Cup, despite Germany’s disappointing early exit from the tournament.
The legendary goalkeeper returned to the national team after careful consideration, hoping to help Germany challenge for football’s biggest prize one last time. Instead, the four-time world champions were eliminated in the Round of 32 after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay.
Paraguay power into the Round of 16 on penalties! 💪#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 29, 2026
Although the campaign ended well below expectations, the 40-year-old Bayern Munich captain said wearing the Germany shirt again remained one of the greatest honours of his career and that he would make the same decision if given the opportunity.
“It has always been an honour,” Neuer wrote in a statement on Instagram. “Being eliminated early from the World Cup is extremely disappointing. We clearly fell short of expectations and should have gone further in this tournament. This ending hurts a lot.”
Neuer explained that his return was motivated by more than simply adding another World Cup appearance to his remarkable career. He wanted to use his vast experience to guide Germany’s younger generation both on and off the pitch during the tournament.
“I made a very conscious decision to play for Germany again because it has always filled me with deep pride to wear the national team jersey,” he said. “At 40 years old and with the experience of four World Cups, I also wanted to support the younger players in the best possible way and help German football.”
Despite the painful ending, Neuer made it clear he has no second thoughts about returning. “I do not regret this decision for a second,” he added. “My disappointment is beyond words, but there remains great gratitude. Thank you for your support over all the years and throughout this tournament.”
Neuer’s statement officially closes the curtain on one of the greatest international careers in German football history. Having represented his country 128 times at senior level, the World Cup-winning goalkeeper leaves the national team as one of its most decorated and influential players, even if his final chapter ended in heartbreak rather than glory.
