Manuel Neuer's calf injury has thrown Germany's goalkeeping plans into uncertainty, with national team manager Julian Nagelsmann forced to postpone any announcement about the Bayern Munich legend's international return. Former Germany international Thomas Hitzlsperger believes the injury, suffered in Bayern's final Bundesliga match against Cologne, derailed what may have been an imminent recall announcement for the World Cup campaign.
Neuer, now 40 years old, had retired from international football after Euro 2020, but recent developments suggested Nagelsmann was preparing to bring him back as number one. The timing became critical when Marc-André ter Stegen suffered a serious injury, leaving Oliver Baumann of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim as the designated starter. However, Neuer's proven pedigree and experience sparked fresh speculation about a potential comeback.
Injury Complicates Coaching Decisions
"Maybe he'd planned to announce Manuel Neuer as the new number one, then Neuer got injured against Cologne and he realised he couldn't say that anymore," Hitzlsperger told BR. The calf complaint has plagued Neuer throughout the season, with the goalkeeper missing two earlier matches before this latest setback. Nagelsmann acknowledged the timing was unfortunate, calling it "a bit of bad luck" and admitting "that's not what an ideal build-up looks like" for World Cup preparations.
Hitzlsperger also criticized Nagelsmann's broader communication strategy, particularly regarding Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav. The coach publicly designated Undav for a backup role despite his scoring prowess, then questioned whether the forward would have found the net if given starting minutes. "What's the point?" Hitzlsperger asked. "It looks as though he's helping to undermine the whole thing. And that's unnecessary."
Questions Over Management Approach
The former Germany international suggested Nagelsmann would benefit from stronger advisory support, noting that recent months have revealed gaps in strategic communication. "It would help if he had advisors who could guide him well," Hitzlsperger remarked, observing that the coach appears to be "walking on eggshells" across multiple squad decisions. Nagelsmann's squad announcement is scheduled for Thursday, where clarity on Neuer's status and Germany's goalkeeping options should finally emerge as the World Cup looms closer.
