World Cup Qualification
If Ter Stegen fails: What are the conversations with Neuer?
Rudi Völler is said to have knocked on Manuel Neuer’s door about a DFB comeback. What happens if Ter Stegen is not fit after his back surgery?
DFB sporting director Rudi Völler is said to have asked Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer about a return to the national team, just in case. This was reported by the newspaper “Bild”. Therefore, it could be a problem for the 2014 world champion if Marc-André ter Stegen, currently absent at FC Barcelona due to back surgery, does not return as a regular goalkeeper and get the necessary match practice.
Völler recently emphasized in the TV program “Sky 90 – football debate” that Neuer’s return is currently not a problem. However, he understood the discussion. Völler explained that Ter Stegen should play again after returning to be number one at next year’s World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico. Ter Stegen is currently represented in the DFB squad by Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann.
Neuer himself stopped this speculation several weeks ago. “But the fact is that I have decided not to play for the national team anymore,” the 39-year-old said on Sky after FC Bayern’s 5-0 win against Hamburger SV. When asked if this decision would definitely stand, the 2014 world champion answered without hesitation: “Yes.”
dpa
