Manuel Neuer's World Cup comeback fuels internal discord and criticism in German team

Germany entered the 2026 FIFA World Cup with several off‑field issues. Referee Felix Zwayer, the sole German official at the tournament, saw limited action after the round of 16 and described his role as a disappointment. The German Football Association (DFB) has not released its official bonus scheme for the competition, but DFB managing director Andreas Rettig hinted that the prize‑money pool – $727 million for national associations – could lead to higher player payments if Germany wins the title.

Manuel Neuer returned from retirement to guard the goal, a decision that sparked “massive upheavals” within the squad. Coach Julian Nagelsmann selected Neuer as the starter, overruling goalkeeper coach Andreas Kronenberg’s plans for Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nübel. Reports say Neuer demanded that Nübel be removed from the squad, a condition partly met by promoting Jonas Urbig as a training keeper. The episode reportedly led Kronenberg to threaten resignation and caused tension among players.

Former goalkeeper Jens Lehmann criticised the team’s defensive organization after Germany’s early knockout, saying the side lacked leaders who could coach on the pitch. Columnist Lothar Matthäus echoed the sentiment, arguing that Neuer’s comeback generated “much wind for nothing” and that the veteran could have skipped the tournament. The German side ultimately exited in the group stage, conceding more goals than they saved.