Legendary German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has officially hung up his gloves on the international stage! 🧤🇩🇪
On Wednesday, the 38-year-old Bayern Munich star announced his retirement from international football in an emotional video posted on Instagram. 📱💬
\"Everyone who knows me is aware this was not an easy decision,\" Neuer shared. \"We have had lots of highs and lows together, with the victory in the 2014 World Cup final against Argentina at the Maracanã obviously my best moment in a Germany shirt.\" 🏆⚽️
Since making his debut in June 2009, Neuer has been a wall for Die Mannschaft, racking up 124 appearances and 51 clean sheets. 🌟 He guarded the goal for Germany in four FIFA World Cups and four UEFA European Championships between 2010 and 2024. 🌍🥅
From the third-place finish at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa to lifting the trophy in Brazil in 2014, Neuer has been a key player in Germany's successes. 🇿🇦🇧🇷 He also helped the team reach the Euro semifinals twice in 2012 and 2016. 🥈
\"As I reflect on my international career, I am proud and grateful to have been able to share the pitch with my teammates and also wear the captain's armband for six years,\" Neuer said. \"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 announcement comes just after his teammate, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, also stepped away from international football earlier this week. ⚽️✌️
Now, the legendary shot-stopper will focus on his club career with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. 🔴⚪️ Get ready for more incredible saves at the Allianz Arena! 🏟️🔥
Gracias por todo, Manuel! 🙌✨
Reference(s):
Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer of Germany retires from international duty
cgtn.com
