National soccer team: Neuer resigns

Neuer announces his farewell on Instagram - Flick: "A great goalkeeper and an exceptional person"

After 113 international matches, Neuer, 36, has announced his retirement from the national soccer team. The captain's farewell comes shortly after the disappointing World Cup in Qatar.

Manuel Neuer will no longer play for the German national soccer team. The 36-year-old announced his retirement on Instagram on Thursday evening. "With a heavy heart, I have today decided to end my international career with the German national team," Neuer wrote. "This decision was not easy for me because I have always enjoyed playing for Germany, and I have always been proud to wear the jersey. I have always given my all for the team, but now I have come to the point where I need to take a step back.

Neuer has played 113 international matches for Germany since his debut in 2009. He was part of the team that won the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and was also in goal for the team's disappointing performances at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

National coach Hansi Flick paid tribute to Neuer on Thursday evening. "Manuel Neuer is a great goalkeeper and an exceptional person," said Flick. "He has been a key player for the national team for many years and has made a significant contribution to our success. We will miss him both on and off the pitch. "

Neuer's resignation comes shortly after the disappointing World Cup in Qatar, where Germany was eliminated in the group stage. Neuer was heavily criticized for his performance in the tournament, and there was speculation that he might retire from the national team.

In his Instagram post, Neuer thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support over the years. He also said that he is now looking forward to focusing on his club career with Bayern Munich.