"I know the topic is interesting" – Völler on possible Germany comeback for Neuer

With FC Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen sidelined again with a long-term injury, speculation has emerged over whether Manuel Neuer could come out of international retirement to represent Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

German Football Association sporting director Rudi Völler, however, stresses that while “the topic is interesting,” the clear plan remains for ter Stegen to return to goal once he is fit, with Oliver Baumann currently deputising.

“I think a goalkeeper like Marc-André ter Stegen truly deserves to play at a World Cup, even though Oliver Baumann is doing well at the moment,” Völler explained on the football talk show Sky90.

“We naturally hope that Marc-André will come back.”

Völler emphasised that ter Stegen will need regular playing time to secure his spot in Germany’s goal for next year’s tournament.

“If he achieves that, he of course has a good chance,” he added.

Although Neuer has denied any interest in returning to the national team, Bild reported last month that the 39-year-old would be open to a World Cup comeback if called upon.