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Oliver Baumann has said that former Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann apologised to him after leaving him out just before the 2026 World Cup. The 36-year-old goalkeeper had been widely expected to start after featuring throughout the qualifying campaign, but he was moved to the bench when Manuel Neuer came out of international retirement before Germany’s round-of-32 exit.

Baumann says Nagelsmann apologised

Hoffenheim goalkeeper Baumann has revealed that former Germany boss Nagelsmann said sorry for taking away his starting place shortly before the 2026 World Cup. Baumann had started all six qualifiers as well as two warm-up games heading into the tournament. However, his spot was suddenly given back to Neuer after the veteran returned from international retirement, not long before Die Mannschaft were knocked out in the round of 32 on penalties by Paraguay.

‘We spoke for almost an hour’

While speaking to various media outlets in Seefeld, Austria, during Hoffenheim’s pre-season training camp, Baumann shared details of his direct exchange with Nagelsmann, who has since been succeeded by Jurgen Klopp.

Reflecting on the painful decision, Baumann said: “He [Nagelsmann] was sorry about how everything turned out in the end. I spoke with Julian ten days ago. We had already agreed to talk on the phone. Then we talked for almost an hour. I told him everything that was important to me.

“Of course, it was hard to swallow. I had this big goal. But I managed to give the team a lot of energy [from the substitutes’ bench]. I think I laid the foundation from my side so that nothing stands in the way of success.”

Neuer nearing the final stage of his career

Bayern Munich and Germany great Neuer has indicated that his celebrated playing career is entering its closing phase, having already confirmed that he will retire from international football for a second time after Germany’s early World Cup elimination. The experienced goalkeeper, who helped redefine the modern “sweeper-keeper” role, admitted that he expects to retire from the game altogether once his club contract ends in 2027. Neuer’s permanent exit from the national team leaves a clear opening for the next generation of goalkeepers to step in for Die Mannschaft.

Starting spot open again

Baumann is now aiming to win Germany’s No.1 role when Klopp takes charge of his first game as head coach against the Netherlands on September 24 in the UEFA Nations League. The battle for the position is expected to begin afresh with the start of a new era under the former Liverpool manager.