Manuel Neuer has confirmed his retirement from international football for the second time in two years, leading a significant wave of departures following the 2026 World Cup. The Germany goalkeeper, who won the tournament in 2014, initially stepped away after Euro 2024 but reversed his decision to make his 23rd and final appearance for the national team in North America.
Neuer’s international career concluded after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in the last 32. He expressed no regrets over his return, despite describing the exit as a “bitter end”. His late inclusion had previously drawn criticism from former Germany defender Robert Huth, who suggested the decision was “really unexpected” and potentially unsettling for the squad.
European contingent bows out
The European exodus extends beyond Germany. Czechia striker Patrik Schick announced his international retirement immediately following his country’s elimination from the group stage, where they failed to secure a victory. Hours after the final group game, he confirmed his national team chapter was ending.
Austria forward Marko Arnautovic also confirmed his departure following a 3–0 last-32 defeat to Spain, describing his international service as the “biggest highlight” of his career. Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon retired without having made a World Cup appearance, despite earning 84 caps since his 2004 debut. Gordon acknowledged he never wanted his career to end but accepted the moment had arrived.
African stars depart amid uncertainty
African football has lost one of its most recognisable attacking talents in Riyad Mahrez, who retired after Algeria’s last-32 exit against Switzerland. The forward marked his first World Cup appearance since 2014 with two goals against Austria, stating that representing Algeria had been a “dream of mine” since childhood.
Uncertainty remains over Sadio Mané’s status, however. The Senegal forward released a statement via local outlet Le Quotidien suggesting his retirement following defeat to Belgium, claiming he had “sacrificed everything for this flag”. However, questions have emerged regarding the statement’s authenticity. Senegal manager Pape Thiaw had previously indicated his desire for Mané to continue, noting that while the decision belongs to the player, he “belongs to the people of Senegal”.
Veterans from the Americas call time
Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, famed for his performances at previous tournaments, described representing his country as the “greatest privilege of my life” after limited playing time in his final campaign. Argentina defender Nicolás Otamendi, who played every minute of their 2022 triumph in Qatar, also confirmed his retirement having revealed his intentions before the tournament.
Ecuador’s record goalscorer Enner Valencia announced his international retirement following their last-32 elimination, confirming he had played his final match for the national team. Ivory Coast midfielder Jean Michaël Seri completed the notable departures, ending an 11-year international career that included his World Cup debut at the age of 33.
The collective departures leave multiple national teams facing transitional periods as preparations begin for future continental qualifying campaigns.