News Focus
- Baumann loses Germany starting place to returning Bayern Munich legend Neuer
- The 40-year-old keeper ends international retirement to reclaim the No.1 shirt
- Hoffenheim star admits the decision hurt but vows to put the team first
- Coach Julian Nagelsmann praises Baumann’s professional attitude
Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann has spoken openly about his pain after losing his role as Germany’s first-choice keeper. The 34-year-old kept goal during every World Cup qualifying match. However, he will now sit on the bench during the tournament.
Manuel Neuer has ended his international retirement to take back the gloves. The 40-year-old Bayern Munich icon missed Saturday’s friendly against the United States because of a calf problem. Baumann played instead and helped Germany secure a 2-1 win.
National team coach Julian Nagelsmann confirmed Neuer will return for Sunday’s opener against Curaçao. This means Baumann drops to the bench despite his strong qualifying performances.
After the match against the USA, Baumann did not hide his feelings. “It hurt at first. It was not pleasant,” he told RTL. However, he quickly changed his focus to help the team. “I knew straight away I must serve the squad. This is the World Cup. Personal feelings are not important now,” he explained.
Nagelsmann praised Baumann’s reaction. “I want to give Oliver a huge compliment. He is a super professional. He has put the team first in recent weeks,” the coach said.