On August 24th, Manuel Neuer announced his retirement from the German national team, stating that he would focus on his career with Bayern Munich. Following the announcement of his retirement, Neuer posted a long message on social media to say goodbye.
It was a difficult decision to step down from the national team. I felt torn. Deep down, I said: “I will miss the national team so much, I will miss the pride of playing for my country, I will miss fighting alongside my teammates.”
I had hoped to end my career with the national team by winning the European Championship. But during this European Championship, I saw everyone fighting for the new generation of German football.
Eighteen months ago, I was wondering whether to continue my football career. When I broke my leg skiing, I didn’t think it was that serious. But when I learned that it wasn’t a normal fracture, my future as a player began to be questioned. I was scared. Anyone would be. I spent a week in the hospital, and every week after that, doctors and therapists came to my home to treat me and encourage me to get better, including Bayern’s team doctor, who played a key role.
But with my relentless effort, I returned to the field in October 2023, less than 10 months before the European Championship. Being named to the European Championship squad was one of the proudest moments of my life.
I was 38 years old during the 2024 European Championship, but I told myself that, excluding the time I was injured, my actual age was 35, and those three years were stolen from me. I fought for my country again and felt the national passion once more. I wanted to help Germany win the European Championship again, but in the end, we failed. However, I have no regrets. When my son grows up, I hope that when people talk about his father’s time with the German team, the legacy I leave behind is fearless play and helping my teammates get better every day.
Now, I can focus on Bayern. Though I am 38 years old, I still have a childlike passion for football. For the national team, I will continue to support my former teammates as a fan. I thank everyone, for our shared efforts and the beautiful memories we shared.
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