Manuel Neuer has bowed back out of international football in the wake of Germany’s humiliating World Cup exit.
Germany were dumped out by Paraguay on penalties after a 1-1 draw in their round-of-32 clash.
Neuer made a big save in the shoot-out, only for Jonathan Tah’s miss to pave the way for Paraguay to win it.
It marked the first time Germany have ever lost a penalty shoot-out in the World Cup.
Julian Nagelsmann called 40-year-old Neuer out of international retirement to feature at the World Cup, but the Bayern Munich stalwart has now retired once again.
Neuer posted on Instagram: “It has always been an honour!
“The early exit from the World Cup is extremely disappointing. We clearly fell short of expectations and should have progressed further in this tournament. This ending is very painful.
“I made a conscious decision to play for Germany one more time. Firstly, because wearing the national team jersey has always filled me with deep pride.
“Secondly, because at 40 years old and with the experience of four World Cup tournaments, I wanted to support the young players both on and off the pitch in the best way possible and help German football. Despite the bitter end, I don’t regret this decision for a second.
“My disappointment is indescribable, yet I feel immense gratitude. Thank you for your support over all these years and during this tournament.”
Paraguay knocking out Germany was the fourth-biggest upset in World Cup knockout history, according to FIFA ranking differential (since its introduction in 1994). pic.twitter.com/LX4jaXbnx5
— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) July 1, 2026
On Wednesday, the German team released an official statement reflecting on their exit.
“Dear fans, this year’s World Cup was held far away. But you were there. You were loud. And you were ready for more,” it read.
“Unfortunately, we were far from our goals on the pitch. We failed to show what this team is truly capable of. As a result, we deservedly exited the tournament far too early.
“We wanted to walk this journey together with you and make Germany proud. But this year, as a team, we simply weren’t able to do that. It hurts. It hurts us just as much as it hurts so many others.
“We accept the criticism of our performances. It is justified and part of sports. But hate has no place in football. We will not tolerate racism or any other form of discrimination.
“Football stands for community and unity, not division. Football stands for community and unity, not division. To everyone who supported us: thank you for being there. Thank you for your incredible support. We will come back stronger – with you by our side.”
There remains uncertainty over Nagelsmann’s future, with the Germany coach having insisted he will not step down.
