Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Baumann praised for accepting Neuer’s return ahead of World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 9:56 AM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Baumann praised for accepting Neuer’s return ahead of World Cup opener

Summary

Germany goalkeeper Oliver Baumann has received commendations from the German Football Federation (DFB) for his response to being moved to a backup role with the national team. Coach Julian Nagelsmann opted to recall Manuel Neuer from retirement just before the tournament. The DFB's managing director for sport, Andreas Rettig, expressed admiration for Baumann's attitude during the transition. Germany is preparing for their opening match against Curaçao in Houston, with Baumann having played in recent warm-ups while Neuer recovered from a calf issue. The DFB has cautioned against underestimating Curaçao, marking their debut at the World Cup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Oliver Baumann is now a backup goalkeeper for Germany.
•Manuel Neuer returns from international retirement for the World Cup.
•Germany faces Curaçao in their tournament opener in Houston.
•Andreas Rettig praised Baumann's handling of the situation.
•Curaçao is the smallest nation to qualify for the men's World Cup.

Latest Updates

9:56 AMYahoo Sports — Germany's Baumann given top marks for accepting Neuer return

What they're saying

"
Germany goalkeeper Oliver Baumann has been praised by the German Football Federation (DFB) for his reaction to being downgraded from starter to back-up at the World Cup. The Hoffenheim man had looked set to be between the posts in their opener against Curaçao in Houston on Sunday.
— Yahoo Sports

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