Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has informed Manuel Neuer that he will no longer hold the captain’s armband for the Germany national team, as reported by Bild.
The Bayern Munich goalkeeper has held the captaincy since 2016 but has been sidelined since breaking his leg in a skiing accident almost a year ago.
Nagelsmann spoke with the 37-year-old over the phone and explained that İlkay Gündoğan will remain as captain since taking over the role after Neuer’s injury.
Nagelsmann confirmed that he had the conversation with Neuer and explained that the goalkeeper reacted well to the news.
“Yes, I spoke with Manuel on the phone. He reacted well. He’s a professional.”
With the armband now taken away from Neuer, he is no longer guaranteed to start for the national side. Neuer is close to making his comeback for Bayern but will have to fight for his starting position for both club and country. At 37, Neuer may have to settle for a back-up for Die Mannschaft. Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is currently number one and six years Neuer’s junior.
Alongside Mats Hummels and Thomas Müller, Neuer is one of three remaining players who won the World Cup in 2014.
GGFN | Jamie Allen
