News Focus
- Manuel Neuer expected to feature in Germany’s provisional 55-player World Cup shortlist
- Julian Nagelsmann maintains strong communication with the veteran goalkeeper
- Final squad announcement scheduled for Thursday, 21 May
- Bayern Munich recently extended the shot-stopper’s contract
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has reportedly included Manuel Neuer in his preliminary 55-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. Sources within the German Football Association (DFB) suggest discussions about the Bayern Munich captain’s selection have been far more serious behind closed doors than the coach has revealed publicly.
The Bavarian club, who have just secured the experienced keeper’s services with a fresh deal, are understood to be aware of these developments. On Monday, the DFB submitted their extended roster to FIFA ahead of the tournament. Regulations demand that this provisional list contains at least five goalkeepers.
Although the document remains private, football observers expect Neuer to appear alongside Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, Finn Dahmen, and Jonas Urbig. The 38-year-old shot-stopper has endured a challenging relationship with Nagelsmann in the past. The tension emerged in January 2023 when the coach, then in charge at Bayern, dismissed goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic following Neuer’s severe leg injury.
However, both parties have since cleared the air. They now speak regularly and insist their professional bond remains solid. With the global finals drawing near, Nagelsmann will trim his selection to the definitive squad on Thursday, 21 May.