Manuel Neuer has decided to bring his illustrious career with the German national team to a close. The 40-year-old goalkeeper had decided to return to the national team only for the 2026 World Cup, but after the disappointing elimination in the round of 32, he decided to retire for good.

In total, he made 128 appearances for the national team, and his greatest moment was winning the World Cup in 2014.

Here’s what he said in detail

“It has always been an honor for me!

Our early elimination from the World Cup is incredibly disappointing. We didn’t live up to expectations, and we should have gone much further in this tournament. This ending hurts me deeply.

I made a conscious decision to play for Germany again. On the one hand, because wearing the national team jersey has always filled me with immense pride. On the other hand, because at 40 years old, with the experience of four World Cups behind me, I wanted to support the younger players as much as possible, both on and off the field, and to help German soccer.

Despite this bitter elimination, I do not regret my decision for a single moment. My disappointment is impossible to put into words, but what remains above all else is my deep gratitude.

Thank you for your support over the years and throughout this tournament.”

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*photo source: AP