Manuel Neuer's shocking recall to Germany's World Cup squad comes with immediate assignment: the Bayern Munich goalkeeper will start against Curacao, manager Julian Nagelsmann confirmed, replacing incumbent Oliver Baumann despite the veteran's solid warm-up performances.
Neuer had retired from international football following Euro 2024 but ended his self-imposed exile after impressing in Bayern's Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. He subsequently signed a contract extension with the Bavarian club and lobbied for a national team return.
Teammate Thomas Müller backed the decision's sporting logic but questioned the communication: "From a purely sporting perspective it makes sense, but the communication was questionable." World Cup-winning colleague Benedikt Howedes praised Neuer's continued excellence: "I would say Manuel Neuer is still the best goalkeeper in the world. His presence is outstanding on the field—it helps you as a defender so much knowing Manuel Neuer is behind you."
Germany's group-stage odds and clean sheet markets may tighten following Neuer's confirmation given his elite reputation, though the calf injury adds concern about match fitness ahead of their opening fixture.
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