Barcelona veteran at risk of losing his starting berth with national team for the FIFA World Cup 2026 | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s hopes of finally becoming Germany’s undisputed No. 1 at a major tournament could be slipping away.

This is because, according to reports from Germany, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, the door may be reopening for veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to make a surprise return to international football, just in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

At 33, Ter Stegen was expected to lead Germany at the next World Cup, especially after Neuer announced his retirement from international duty following Euro 2024.

For the Barcelona keeper, this was meant to be the crowning moment of his national team career, having waited patiently in Neuer’s shadow for over a decade. But things have taken an unexpected turn.

The Barcelona captain recently underwent his second back surgery, ruling him out for around four months.

Though Barcelona have not confirmed a specific return date, the injury has already cast serious doubt over his readiness for the upcoming international fixtures.

Neuer keeps the door open

Manuel Neuer’s return could spell trouble for Ter Stegen. (Photo by Lars Baron/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, in Germany, whispers are growing louder that Neuer could be considering a comeback, saying he has “next year’s World Cup in mind.”

The 39-year-old is still Bayern Munich’s first-choice keeper and looked sharp throughout Euro 2024, which was supposed to be his international farewell.

Interestingly, Julian Nagelsmann has backed Ter Stegen in recent months, labelling him “my number one.”

That endorsement now feels more uncertain, with Ter Stegen’s physical condition and form under close scrutiny.

Once Ter Stegen returns, he will only two have friendlies – one in March and another just before the World Cup – to prove he is fit and sharp enough to reclaim his spot. That is a razor-thin margin in the ultra-competitive environment of the national team.

However, if Neuer stays in top shape and is willing to answer the call, Nagelsmann could face a difficult decision.