The decision regarding the German national team’s goalkeeper is becoming more and more concrete. According to Sky and BILD, Julian Nagelsmann personally informed Oliver Baumann on Monday about the planned return of Manuel Neuer as number 1. However, it remains to be seen whether the Bayern professional will actually be in the DFB goal for the 2026 World Cup
According to the report, the conversation took place over the phone and a face-to-face meeting was not possible as Baumann is currently in Mallorca with his family
During the conversation, Nagelsmann is said to have informed the Hoffenheim keeper of his fundamental decision to plan with Manuel Neuer as the starting keeper at the 2026 World Cup
However, there is apparently still one important condition: the Bayern captain’s calf injury must not turn out to be more serious in the coming days
At the same time, Nagelsmann is said to have cautiously sounded out Baumann as to whether he would be prepared to travel to the World Cup as a substitute keeper despite the demotion
Nagelsmann seeks talks with Neuer
According to Sky, Baumann has signaled his willingness in principle. The 35-year-old is regarded internally as an absolute team player and is said to have assured the DFB of his support despite his disappointment at the developments of the past few days
The situation is nevertheless bitter for Baumann, who was the number one goalkeeper for Germany throughout the World Cup qualifiers and had justified hopes of making the World Cup
According to the report, further detailed discussions are planned between Nagelsmann and Manuel Neuer
In particular, the medical developments surrounding the Bayern keeper’s calf problems are likely to play a decisive role. Neuer suffered a minor injury in FC Bayern’s 5-1 defeat to 1. FC Köln and had to be substituted in the second half
As things stand, however, the injury is not expected to be serious
There will be final clarity on Thursday at the latest
Julian Nagelsmann will then announce the official 26-man squad for the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico and will also comment in detail on the question of goalkeeping in the national team.