Manuel Neuer Thrives in Fifth World Cup Appearance at Age 40

HOUSTON — Manuel Neuer, Germany's seasoned goalkeeper, continues to defy expectations as he competes in his fifth World Cup, matching the record set by Lothar Matthäus for the most World Cup appearances by a German player. When Neuer took the field during Germany's impressive 7-1 victory over Curaçao on June 14, he made history as the oldest German to participate in a major tournament at the age of 40 years and 79 days.

This match marked Neuer's 20th appearance in World Cup history, and he expressed his joy about being part of the national team once again. “It was certainly very special,” Neuer remarked. “It makes me incredibly proud to be playing for the national team again, to be out on the pitch with this squad, and to be playing in my fifth World Cup. I am overjoyed about it.”

His presence on the team wasn't a certainty, as Neuer had initially stepped away from the national squad following Germany's exit from the 2024 European Championship. However, national team coach Julian Nagelsmann sought his return earlier this year after Marc-André ter Stegen sustained an injury, and with Neuer showcasing superb form with Bayern Munich. The decision to reinstate him raised eyebrows, especially after Neuer missed several pre-World Cup friendlies due to a calf injury incurred in late May. Some fans and former players, including Matthäus, voiced their discontent with Nagelsmann's choice to add Neuer to the World Cup lineup, replacing Oliver Baumann.

Despite the controversy, Neuer remains a formidable figure in soccer, having redefined the role of a goalkeeper over the last two decades. Known for his "sweeper keeper" style, he has earned accolades as the best goalkeeper in Europe five times and was awarded the Golden Glove during Germany's victorious 2014 World Cup campaign. “In order to have a good World Cup, we need Manuel in top performance and I think he can bring that,” Nagelsmann stated before Germany's opener against Curaçao.

In true form, Neuer showcased his dynamic playing style, even venturing far up the field to head the ball from the center line during the match. Although he only had to make one save throughout the game, he conceded a goal to Livano Comenencia, who celebrated scoring against the legendary goalkeeper. Comenencia later shared his admiration for Neuer, recalling how he often played as him in the FIFA video game. “He’s one of the greatest keepers,” Comenencia said.

Following the match, Neuer exchanged jerseys with Curaçao's goalkeeper, Eloy Room, where they shared lighthearted banter about the game. “But he also said, ‘You guys are good players, you guys did good. Keep your head up and keep going,’” Room recounted. Neuer is one of seven players aged 40 or older participating in the 2026 World Cup, with four being goalkeepers. “I believe that in the end, what matters is not age, birthdate or playing time, but whether you bring quality to the pitch,” Neuer concluded, emphasizing that the right decisions come from the coaches who determine the lineup.