The discussion about Manuel Neuer and the German number one at the 2026 World Cup continues to intensify. Sky expert Dietmar Hamann has now significantly increased the pressure on national coach Julian Nagelsmann – and revealed explosive details in the process
In the Sky90 programme,Hamann spoke about a conversation between Nagelsmann and Oliver Baumann during the last international match phase in March, according to which the national coach is said to have already informed the Hoffenheim man that he was considering Manuel Neuer’s return for the World Cup
Particularly explosive: According to Hamann, Nagelsmann also assured Baumann that this would not jeopardize his status as number one
Neuer could return „as number two, maybe even number three“, but Baumann would still remain „number one“, a statement that caused visible surprise even on Sky
Presenter Patrick Wasserziehr reacted clearly: „Didi’s statement is completely new to me.“
Hamann sharply criticizes Nagelsmann
For Hamann, the situation reveals above all a communication problem on the part of the national team coach. The former international even spoke of a possible „desperate act“ should Neuer actually return at short notice
„If he thinks we need to bring Neuer back in order to have a better chance, then he should do it,“ explained Hamann
However, Nagelsmann would then have to communicate openly and consistently: „Then he should tell Baumann six or seven weeks ago: Watch out, this is how it looks.“
In sporting terms, Hamann is also critical of the Bayern captain’s return. Although he still recognises Neuer’s exceptional class, the 2014 world champion is „no longer the dominator he used to be“. The Sky expert is particularly concerned about the physical situation. „He hasn’t been free of mistakes this season,“ Hamann emphasised, referring to the past few months
There is also the risk of injury
Neuer recently had to be substituted again in the 5-1 defeat against 1. FC Köln due to muscular problems in his calf. „The risk is too great for me,“ Hamann explained clearly
Reuter still sees Neuer as an advantage
Not everyone on the panel shared this view. Stefan Reuter was clearly in favour of Neuer being named for the World Cup – provided the Bayern keeper gets fit in time. „I always think it’s good to have Manuel Neuer in the squad because of his personality,“ explained the former international
Reuter continues to be particularly impressed by Neuer’s performances in the big games, citing the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid as an example: „When you deliver a game like that in such an important encounter, it’s crazy.“
The public debate surrounding the German number 1 is now likely to have finally reached its climax. Julian Nagelsmann will have to clarify the situation on Thursday at the latest when the national coach announces his final World Cup squad
Until then, the goalkeeper question remains the biggest and most emotional topic surrounding the German national team.