Neuer Has No Regrets Returning to Germany Despite World Cup Exit

Manuel Neuer, Germany's legendary goalkeeper, thanked fans in a post following the team's World Cup elimination in the round of 32, reaffirming he has no regrets about returning to the squad. Germany exited the tournament after losing to Paraguay 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time, marking the first penalty shootout loss in World Cup history for the German national team. In his post-elimination statement, Neuer expressed his feelings while confirming he stands by his decision to rejoin the team. "Serving the German national team has always been an honor for me," his statement read. "Our early elimination from the World Cup is deeply disappointing. We clearly underperformed expectations and should have advanced further in this tournament. This ending is painful. I made a deliberate decision to return and play for Germany again for two reasons. First, because wearing the national team jersey has always filled me with profound pride. Second, because at 40 years old, with experience from four World Cups, I want to support our younger players as best as I can, both on and off the pitch, and help German football. Despite this bitter end, I have no regrets whatsoever about this decision. My disappointment is difficult to put into words, but above all, I remain deeply grateful. Thank you for the support you've given me over many years and throughout this World Cup." Neuer originally retired from international football after Euro 2024 but continued performing well for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, prompting coach Julian Nagelsmann to bring him back.