Overview
- Manuel Neuer started Germany’s World Cup opener on Sunday, June 14, and conceded one deflected goal as the team beat Curaçao 7-1 at Houston’s NRG Stadium.
- At 40 years and 79 days old, Neuer became the oldest player to represent Germany at a major tournament and joined Lothar Matthäus in appearing at five World Cups.
- Coach Julian Nagelsmann recalled Neuer from international retirement after Marc-André ter Stegen’s injury and named him first-choice over Oliver Baumann, a decision that drew public criticism before the tournament.
- Neuer missed some warm-up games while a calf issue was monitored, and Germany are actively managing his workload; he says a gluten-free and lactose-free diet helps his recovery.
- Neuer’s on-field style remained influential as he acted as a sweeper-keeper — notably heading the ball from near midfield — and his veteran presence shaped team culture and the ongoing goalkeeper succession discussion.