Bayern Munich legend Manuel Neuer retired from the German national team this week, but had not really addressed the decision publicly.
Neuer, though, did release a statement through The Players’ Tribune (as captured by @iMiaSanMia):
Maybe I could have won the Euros, too, but I have no regrets. When my son grows up and people talk about his father playing for Germany, I hope that my legacy is that I played without fear, and that I helped my teammates be better players every day.
If that is what they’ll say about me, I’ll be happy.
Now I can focus on helping Bayern return to where we belong. At 38, I still have this childlike passion for football. If I see a ball lying on the grass 20 metres away, I have to run over and do something with it. Kick-ups, headers … something. I can’t let it sit there alone. It’s a crime against football. My coaches laugh, because I look like this little kid who has just discovered the game, but it has always been this way for me.
The day I no longer run over to get that ball, I know it will be time to stop.
But as far as the national team goes, I will be watching my former teammates as one more fan. I appreciate all of you guys, for the work we have put in together, for the memories we have shared, for all the laughs and the jokes.
I’ll miss you.
Keep building on what we started.
Surely, Neuer will be missed for Germany, but it was extremely interesting to see Neuer address how he will know when it is time to finally walk away from the game for good.
Looking for more thoughts on Bayern Munich’s transfer window, plus our takes on Manuel Neuer’s retirement from the German national team? What about some predictions on how Bayern Munich will do this season? Great, then check out our Bavarian Podcast Works — Weekend Warm-up Show on Patreon, Spotify, or below:
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