Sports

Why Is Manuel Neuer Not Playing Tonight for Germany vs USMNT?

The USMNT is hosting Germany at Soldier Field for both national teams' final friendly match before the World Cup.

Both national teams have strong lineups for this friendly match, but Germany will be without their number one goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer.

The legendary goalkeeper is selected for Germany's World Cup roster this summer after coming out of international football retirement. Neuer had a successful season with Bayern Munich, which led to his return to the national team.

Oliver Baumann is replacing Neuer in the goalkeeping position against the USMNT. Neuer is not on the bench and will not be available to play the match. He is present with his teammates at Soldier Field.

 Aleksander Pavlovic and Manuel Neuer of Germany inspect the pitch prior to the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images) Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images
Aleksander Pavlovic and Manuel Neuer of Germany inspect the pitch prior to the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images) Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images

The other goalkeepers available for Germany are Alexander Nubel and Jonas Urbig, who are on the bench.

Is Manuel Neuer Injured?

Yes, Manuel Neuer is still sidelined due to an ankle issue and has yet to resume team training, and will go straight into the World Cup with no match practice.

Neuer is expected to be fully fit by Germany's World Cup opener match against Curacao on June 14, 2026.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann spoke about Neuer ahead of the USMNT and expects the goalkeeper to be ready for the World Cup.

Nagelsmann said, "Manuel Neuer is doing well. He's on his way to full fitness. We decided not to take any risks tomorrow. He should be fully fit for the first group stage game."

Copyright 2026 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published June 6, 2026 at 11:33 AM.

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