World Cup 2026: Manuel Neuer breaks Lothar Matthäus's record

World Cup 2026 Today at 13:05

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

Manuel Neuer breaks Lothar Matthäus's record at 40 years and 79 days old. Starting in goal this Sunday against Curaçao as Germany kicks off their World Cup 2026 campaign, the Bayern Munich goalkeeper is playing in his fifth World Cup—a feat that highlights his extraordinary longevity at the highest level.

Manuel Neuer now adds 2026 to a career already packed with achievements after the 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. At 40 years and 79 days, he erases the record previously held by Lothar Matthäus and adds another prestigious milestone to an already exceptional résumé. This appearance is all the more special as it marks his participation in a fifth World Cup, following the tournaments in 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

An unexpected return to the top

The story is even more remarkable considering the German shot-stopper had announced his international retirement in 2024. Two years later, however, he's back in the Mannschaft jersey and immediately reclaims his starting spot.

World champion in 2014, Neuer remains one of the most iconic figures in modern German football. By playing in this fifth World Cup, he joins the exclusive club of players who have featured in five World Cups and cements his exceptional longevity at the highest level.