After Neuer: Who will be Germany's new No. 1 goalkeeper?

Manuel Neuer retired from international duty after Germany's early exit from the 2026 World Cup , opening the door for a new No. 1.

Jonas Urbig appears the obvious choice, but Neuer is still the starter at Bayern Munich , which severely limits Urbig's playing time. If the 23-year-old was Bayern's first choice, he would likely be Germany's number one too. As it stands, though, it appears doubtful that Germany's new coach Jürgen Klopp will even call him up to his first squad. On September 17, he will announce his squad for four UEFA Nations League games against the Netherlands , Greece , and Serbia . And no position in the current Germany team is more up for grabs than goalkeeper.

Oliver Baumann: The automatic Neuer replacement?

Oliver Baumann represents exactly the kind of selfless No. 2 who could be the next No. 1. The Hoffenheim goalkeeper even commendably dealt with the humiliation of being replaced by Neuer just before the World Cup .

Baumann appears unlikely to be Germany's new No. 1 under Klopp Image: Michael Memmler/Eibner-Pressefoto/picture alliance

Klopp isn’t just tasked with celebrating short-term success with Germany, however. His remit is to bring about lasting change making Germany favorites for a World Cup and a Euros once again. Oliver Baumann turned 36 this summer. The Bundesliga veteran will be 38 at the next Euros , 40 by the 2030 World Cup. His age might count against a sustainable rebirth of the Germany team.

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