Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has spent his glittering career redefining the standards of modern goalkeeping.
On Sunday, the legendary shot-stopper added yet another historic distinction to his resume during Germanyâs commanding 7-1 demolition of Curaçao at the 2026 World Cup.
By starting the match, Neuer became the first player aged 40 or over to feature at the 2026 tournament.
At exactly 40 years and 79 days old, he also cemented his place in football folklore as the seventh-oldest player to ever feature in a World Cup.
Neuer’s appearance did more than just break tournament records; it rewrote German football history. The Bayern icon is now officially the oldest player to ever represent the German national team, narrowly overtaking the legendary Lothar Matthäus for the top spot.
This latest milestone marks a stunning twist in a narrative Neuer himself likely didn’t see coming. Just a few months ago, the veteran keeper was completely out of the international picture, with his days in the Nationalelf shirt seemingly behind him.
However, following pivotal discussions with senior teammates and head coach Julian Nagelsmann, Neuer made the bold decision to reverse his international absence and return to the squad.
As of now, that gamble has paid off spectacularly. The 40-year-old hasn’t just returned as a locker-room mentor; he has firmly re-established himself as a vital cog in Nagelsmannâs starting XI as Germany chases world glory.
Neuer and Germany will look to carry the momentum of their explosive 7-1 opening victory into their next Group Stage fixture. They are set to face CĂ´te d’Ivoire this Saturday at 4:00 PM EDT at BMO Field in Toronto, Ontario.
