Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international football today, 21 August 2024, marking an end to one of the most exciting goalkeeping eras.
The German goalkeeper, who redefined the role of the modern-day shot-stopper, leaves behind a legacy etched in golden memories and iconic moments.
From his youth days as a prodigy to lifting the World Cup in 2014, Neuer’s career is a tapestry of brilliant saves, crucial assists, and a unique playing style that set him apart from his peers.
As Soccernet.football reflects on his journey, here are the ten most beautiful moments that defined Neuer’s illustrious international career.
1. A Clean Sheet in the 2009 UEFA Under-21 Championship Final
Before Manuel Neuer became the colossus of German football, he was already showing signs of greatness.
In the 2009 UEFA Under-21 Championship final against England, the young goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in a 4-0 victory, displaying his shot-stopping ability and command over the defense. It was a precursor to the brilliance that the world would soon witness on the grandest stages.
2. Debut with a Statement – UAE 7-2 Germany (2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifier)
Neuer’s debut for the senior German team in 2009 was nothing short of a statement.
Thrown into the deep end during a friendly against the United Arab Emirates, Neuer’s performance was both assured and commanding, even as Germany conceded twice in a 7-2 win.
It was clear from that moment that Germany had found their next great goalkeeper, one who would soon become irreplaceable.
3. Assisting Klose, Denying England – 2010 FIFA World Cup Round of 16
One of Neuer’s earliest legendary moments came during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
In a match that will forever be remembered for Frank Lampard’s disallowed goal, Neuer not only kept Germany in control with crucial saves but also turned provider.
His long throw to Miroslav Klose, leading to the opening goal in a 4-1 win over England, was a perfect example of his ability to influence the game beyond his goalkeeping duties.
4. Sweeper-Keeper Masterclass – 2014 FIFA World Cup vs. Algeria
The 2014 FIFA World Cup saw Neuer at the peak of his powers, but it was his performance against Algeria in the Round of 16 that truly showcased his unique style.
With Germany on the ropes, Neuer played as a ‘sweeper-keeper’, racing out of his box on numerous occasions to snuff out Algerian counter-attacks. His audacious approach not only kept Germany in the game but also redefined what it meant to be a goalkeeper.
5. Golden Glove Winner – 2014 FIFA World Cup Triumph
Germany’s World Cup triumph in 2014 was a collective effort, but Neuer’s contribution was nothing short of extraordinary.
Keeping four clean sheets, including one in the final against Argentina, Neuer’s commanding presence and calm under pressure earned him the tournament’s Golden Glove award.
His performance in the final, where he expertly dealt with Argentina’s attacking threats, was the culmination of a near-perfect tournament.
6. Breaking Sepp Maier’s Record – UEFA Euro 2016 Quarter-Final
By 2016, Neuer had firmly established himself as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.
During the UEFA Euro 2016 quarter-final against Italy, Neuer broke Sepp Maier’s record of consecutive minutes without conceding a goal at a major tournament.
His penalty shootout heroics, saving two spot-kicks to guide Germany to a 6-5 victory, further cemented his legendary status.
- The Ultimate Captain – 2018 FIFA World Cup
In 2016, Neuer was handed the captain’s armband following Bastian Schweinsteiger’s retirement.
Despite a challenging World Cup campaign in 2018, where Germany exited in the group stage, Neuer’s leadership and resilience stood out.
His performance against Sweden, where he made crucial saves to keep Germany in the tournament, showed his never-say-die attitude, even when the odds were against him.
- A Century of Caps – UEFA Euro 2020 Milestone
Neuer’s longevity and consistency were celebrated when he earned his 100th cap for Germany in a friendly against Latvia before the UEFA Euro 2020.
He became the first German goalkeeper to reach the milestone, highlighting his incredible durability and importance to the national team.
Even as Germany’s tournament ended in the Round of 16, Neuer’s contributions were undeniable, including a crucial clean sheet against Hungary in the group stage.
- A Record-Breaking 2022 FIFA World Cup Appearance
At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Neuer made history by becoming the first German goalkeeper to appear in four consecutive World Cups.
In Germany’s final group stage match against Costa Rica, Neuer set a new record with his 19th World Cup appearance, surpassing legends like Sepp Maier and Cláudio Taffarel.
Although Germany exited the tournament early, Neuer’s record-breaking feat proved his enduring class and consistency at the highest level.
- Final Bow at UEFA Euro 2024 – The Last Dance
Neuer’s final international appearance came at UEFA Euro 2024, where he led Germany as hosts.
In the opening match against Scotland, Neuer set a new record with his 35th appearance in major tournament finals.
Although Germany’s journey ended in the quarter-finals, Neuer’s performances were as reliable as ever, with clean sheets against Hungary and Denmark. His final act was one of leadership, skill, and the poise that had defined his career.