By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann is facing an unprecedented goalkeeper crisis.
While 39-year-old Manuel Neuer has ruled out a return and Marc-Andre ter Stegen appears unavailable due to a recurring injury that has sidelined him for months, Oliver Baumann has to step in as the four-time World Cup winner's first choice.
Nagelsmann's issues become evident when discussing the need for additional replacements behind Baumann, as well as the Hoffenheim goalkeeper's lack of experience in major tournaments.
While Germany has, for decades, enjoyed top-class keepers, the upcoming World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the USA is proving an unpleasant challenge.
MANUEL NEUER
The Bayern Munich keeper this week has once again refused to return to international football, instead committing himself solely to club duties.
A final decision on whether to extend his career beyond the end of this season is expected in the upcoming months.
"I have the best German keeper around and will enjoy that fact," Bayern's coach Vincent Kompany said, adding, "We are in all three competitions, and I won't waste energy when it comes to next season."
Bayern said it's up to Neuer to stay or end his career.
MARC-ANDRE TER STEGEN
The 33-year-old experienced an injury setback after transferring from Barcelona to La Liga rival Girona.
Nagelsmann said the door is not entirely closed for the 33-year-old, but his return in time for the tournament is highly unlikely.
Ter Stegen's injury break is expected to last at least two months, making a return for the World Cup unlikely.
OLIVER BAUMANN
While the Hoffenheim goalkeeper has earned praise for his current league performances and recent national team appearances, his limited international experience is a topic of discussion.
Turning 36 this summer, Baumann is stepping into the limelight having previously been third choice.
Nagelsmann said Baumann will be the team's number one at the World Cup, with Neuer wishing Baumann "all good wishes" for the tournament.
ALEXANDER NUBEL
The 29-year-old Stuttgart keeper seems an outside candidate after recent inconsistent performances.
While Nubel is on loan at Stuttgart from Bayern, the latter is counting on Jonas Urbig as a potential Neuer successor. Germany's record international Lothar Matthaus has pleaded to convince Neuer to stay or sign an experienced keeper. ■
