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Published 08:38 IST, October 19th 2023

Manuel Neuer to no longer lead Germany after clashing with Julian Nagelsmann during Bayern spell

After the spat in Bayern Munich, it is reported that Manuel Neuer will no longer lead the German National Team, once he returns from his injury.

Reported by: Aryan Suraj Chadha
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Manuel Neuer
Manuel Neuer | Image: AP

Manuel Neuer is arguably the greatest goalkeeper in the history of Germany. The 37-year-old footballer has been out of action for almost over a year due to injury. With Germany eyeing on to win the UEFA Euro 2024 on home soil next year, their captain’s return is set to be announced soon and it is possible that he will play football in the month of October. Julian Naglesman seems to be happy with Gundogan as their captain in the absence of Neuer.

3 things you need to know

  • Manuel Neuer was the captain of the German National Team 
  • Gundogan is the currently leading Germany in the absence of Neuer  
  • Germany will host the UEFA Euro 2024

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Gundogan to be the permanent captain?

When Manuel Neuer returns from his skiing injury, he will not be able to take the captaincy of the German national team. There are rumours that this choice has to do with his previous disagreements with Julian Nagelsmann.

Ilkay Gundogan, a midfielder for Barcelona, is leaning towards becoming the team's permanent captain. Nagelsmann, the new coach, has made up his mind not to name Neuer the captain again. Gundogan has been leading the squad as captain in Neuer's absence. The German manager made a huge statement, according to the Bild he said:

Ilkay will remain captain. It's important that we have continuity there.

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What went wrong with Neuer and Nagelsmann?

The persistent animosity between Neuer and the former Bayern Munich manager, which dates back to their joint time at the Munich club, is reportedly the cause of his reluctance to choose Neuer as captain once more. According to reports, Neuer was not happy with the manager's decision to fire goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic the previous season. Tapalovic had worked with Bayern for twelve years and was friendly with their goalie. During that time, Nagelsmann had been quite enraged with him for allegedly disclosing player talks.

With Ilkay Gundogan anticipated to take over as permanent captain, the midfield player will have the opportunity to lead his country, particularly in the German-hosted Euro 2024 competition. 

Updated 13:42 IST, October 19th 2023