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Germany’s veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has officially announced his retirement from international football for the second time, following his nation’s disappointing World Cup campaign.

The German side were eliminated in the Round of 32 after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, following a goalless 120 minutes that marked yet another early exit for Die Mannschaft.

Neuer was the last remaining player from Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad — the last time the team managed to win a knockout match at the tournament.

In an interview with broadcaster Sportschau after the defeat, the 40-year-old confirmed that he would no longer be available for selection for the national team. Later, when asked by Magenta TV if he would continue playing, Neuer simply replied “no,” adding, “It’s very bitter to end it like this.”

Neuer made his Germany debut in 2009, taking over as first-choice goalkeeper from Jens Lehmann for the 2010 World Cup. Over the following decade, he established himself as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history.

The Bayern Munich captain had previously retired from international duty after Germany’s elimination by Spain at Euro 2024, played on home soil. Since then, Oliver Baumann had been Germany’s starting goalkeeper under coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Despite denials from both Nagelsmann and Neuer, the goalkeeper made a surprising return to international football for his fifth World Cup, reclaiming the No.1 spot and pushing Baumann to the bench.

The decision sparked debate in Germany, particularly after the team's shock exit against Paraguay, which has cast uncertainty over Nagelsmann’s future despite his recent contract extension prior to the tournament.

Neuer retires as Germany’s fifth most-capped player, trailing only Lothar Matthäus, Miroslav Klose, Thomas Müller, and Lukas Podolski.

Born in Gelsenkirchen, Neuer has been one of the most influential goalkeepers of his generation. His career with the national team has been decorated with numerous honours and individual accolades.

He has twice been named Germany’s Footballer of the Year and finished third in the 2014 Ballon d’Or voting — a rare feat for a goalkeeper.

Now aged 40, Neuer still has one year remaining on his Bayern Munich contract, but his decision marks the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of German football.