German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has officially retired from international duty, ending a remarkable 15-year career with the national team.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, the 38-year-old Neuer stated, \\"Everyone who knows me is aware this was not an easy decision. We have had lots of highs and lows together, with the victory in the 2014 World Cup final against Argentina at the Maracana obviously my best moment in a Germany shirt.\\"
Neuer made 124 appearances for Germany, achieving 51 clean sheets. He was a pivotal part of Die Mannschaft’s campaigns in four FIFA World Cups and four UEFA European Championships between 2010 and 2024.
Highlights of his international career include Germany’s third-place finish at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and lifting the championship trophy in Brazil in 2014. Neuer also led the team to the semifinals twice at the Euros in 2012 and 2016.
Reflecting on his career, Neuer expressed pride and gratitude, adding, \\"To recover from a serious injury and play for Germany at a home Euros was the crowning glory. I would like to thank the DFB, staff, teammates and fans for their support through the good times and the bad.\\"
Neuer's retirement follows that of his midfielder teammate Ilkay Gundogan, who recently also stepped away from international football.
As he transitions away from international play, Neuer will focus his full attention on his club career with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.
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Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer of Germany retires from international duty
cgtn.com
