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Uli Hoeneß calls for Manuel Neuer’s return to Germany squad for the World Cup

Bayern Munich supervisory board member Uli Hoeneß has called for Manuel Neuer to return to the German national team for the World Cup in 2026.

Neuer, 39, stepped away from the national team after Euro 2024, but with Marc-André ter Stegen once again sidelined long term, speculation has grown over a possible comeback for the veteran Bayern goalkeeper.

Hoeneß has now entered the debate about Germany’s No.1 position, saying he believes Neuer should return.

“At a World Cup, the best must play. And Manuel is the best. That’s why he must play if he is healthy,” Hoeneß told reporters at a media event in Munich.

Neuer's agent, Thomas Kroth, recently revealed that his client would be open to a return.

“He’s in top shape and performing at his best. If [Germany coach] Julian Nagelsmann sees a problem in goal, Manuel is healthy, and if he’s asked, ‘Manu’ certainly won’t say no,” Kroth said.

Former Germany captain Lothar Matthäus has also backed the idea.

“The best should play. Manu showed at the Club World Cup that he has lost none of his abilities. He and ter Stegen are our outstanding goalkeepers. The others are good, but not good enough for a World Cup title,” Matthäus told kicker.

With ter Stegen recovering from back surgery, Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann has filled in, starting both of Germany’s World Cup qualifiers this month.