Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović has joined the growing chorus of voices calling for legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to return to the German national team — and his words carry the weight of respect shared by an entire generation of players who grew up idolizing the Bayern captain.
Speaking to Bild, Pavlović couldn’t hide his admiration for the veteran shot-stopper. “You always want to have Manu in goal,” the 21-year-old said. “I know that, and you know that too — he’s a world-class goalkeeper. But that’s also up to the coach to decide. I can’t say much about that right now.”
Neuer, who officially retired from international duty last year, has been in sparkling form for Bayern Munich this season, seamlessly regaining his rhythm after recovering from his career-threatening leg injury. His commanding presence, unmatched reflexes, and leadership have once again reminded fans why he redefined the art of goalkeeping.
With Germany struggling to find stability between the posts, calls for his return have intensified. Julian Nagelsmann’s current squad has seen regular starters Marc-André ter Stegen and Oliver Baumann sidelined through injuries, prompting the national coach to call up SC Freiburg’s young keeper Noah Atubolu. While Atubolu’s potential is promising, even Nagelsmann knows that replacing Neuer’s aura is no small task.
Pavlović, a Munich native and one of Bayern’s brightest academy graduates, shares the sentiment of millions of fans — that Germany simply isn’t the same without Neuer anchoring the backline. His comments echo those of former teammates and legends who believe that the 37-year-old’s experience and calmness could prove vital as Germany prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
Germany, meanwhile, face Luxembourg and Northern Ireland in what should be comfortable qualifiers, but they come amid growing questions about form, identity, and leadership within the team. With new faces being tested and injuries limiting options, Nagelsmann’s side looks more experimental than elite.
Still, the prospect of Neuer donning the national colors again feels more real than ever. For Pavlović and others, his comeback would not only boost morale but also restore a sense of stability to a nation desperate for confidence.
Manuel Neuer may have stepped away from the international stage — but as Pavlović and countless fans remind us, legends like him never truly retire.
