Magath: Neuer is still the best goalkeeper in the German team. If he retires, Ulbicht can replace him.

In an interview with Bild, the legendary German coach Magath expressed his views on the future of his former disciple Neuer at Bayern and the German national team. He firmly believes that Neuer is still the best goalkeeper in Germany and shared a past experience when the two worked together at Schalke.

What do you think of Neuer's future at Bayern? His contract will expire in the summer of 2026.

Magath: I guess if Neuer wants to continue his career, renewing his contract with Bayern will be a natural result. Because I can't see a better goalkeeper than him.

If Neuer decides to retire, do you think Bayern will be ready at the goalkeeper position?

Magath: If Neuer decides to retire one day, then Urbich will already be there. Signing him was strategically smart. The only challenge now is how he can continue to develop well behind Neuer. In this regard, the club, Neuer and Ulbicht must work together so that Bayern is very well equipped at the goalkeeper position both now and in the long term.

What do you think about the possibility of Neuer returning to the German national team to participate in the 2026 World Cup?

Magath: Oliver Bowman has performed well in front of the national team recently, and we also have some other good goalkeepers in Germany. However, the level of the top national teams is very close, and at the World Cup, every difference in level can be decisive. Among German goalkeepers, Neuer is still the one with the highest level. Not only is he technically the best, he brings a mentality that is unmatched.

You mentioned his unparalleled mentality. Can you talk about it in detail?

Magath: At that time (at Schalke), Neuer always ran at the front in the endurance running training. This was unusual for a young goalkeeper, and it also showed how meticulous he had been in his work.

So, if the decision was yours, would you take him to the World Cup?

Magath: If Neuer expresses his willingness to play, I will rely on his abilities as a goalkeeper and as a person. But whether this is possible, only the national team coach and Neuer himself know.