Leroy Sané's international career appears headed for the exit door, according to former Bundesliga coach Peter Neururer. The 71-year-old predicts that Jürgen Klopp, newly appointed as Germany's national team manager, will overlook the winger when naming his first squad for Nations League fixtures on 17 September. Neururer's assessment carries particular weight given his extensive experience in German football and his familiarity with elite-level talent evaluation.
Inconsistent Performances End Sané's International Hope
Speaking to Sport1, Neururer delivered a candid verdict on the 30-year-old forward: "He could play on the same level as Messi. But when was the last time he showed that?" The legendary coach's comments reflect growing concern about Sané's recent form at club level. At Galatasaray, the Turkish champions where he joined on a free transfer, Sané has struggled to maintain his place on the right wing—a role he once dominated. This loss of regular football raises serious questions about his readiness for international competition at the highest level.
Sané's Germany journey has resembled a turbulent rollercoaster since his debut in autumn 2015. Across 80 international caps, he has scored 18 goals, demonstrating undeniable quality when performing at his peak. However, consistency has eluded him throughout his career. Under Julian Nagelsmann, his predecessor, Sané experienced periodic exclusions before earning restoration as a regular starter at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. That tournament, however, became a turning point for both player and nation. Germany's embarrassing group-stage elimination—a shock defeat to Japan followed by failure to progress—exposed systemic problems within the squad. Sané's underwhelming displays at the finals failed to arrest the team's decline.
Klopp's Performance-Based Approach
Neururer emphasizes that Klopp operates on merit alone. The Liverpool legend's management philosophy centers on consistent excellence and tangible output. "I do not believe that he is capable of delivering performances at Galatasaray to the extent that Jürgen Klopp will turn to him," Neururer stated bluntly. The verdict seems final: "Unfortunately, his time has run out and I do not believe he will come back."
In contrast, Neururer holds greater optimism about Leon Goretzka, the central midfielder who transferred to Aston Villa on a free deal from Bayern Munich. Despite his peripheral role at the World Cup and subsequent criticism for alleged team isolation, Neururer believes the 31-year-old can rediscover form in the Premier League. At Bayern, where Goretzka "only played sporadically" in his final season, renewed opportunity in England could revitalize his international prospects. Klopp's squad announcement on 17 September will reveal whether these predictions hold true.
