Following the retirement of Bastian Schweinsteiger, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has been announced as the new German national captain.
Neuer has 71 Die Mannschaft caps to his name after making his debut in 2009 and the Bayern Munich No.1 formed a key part of the side that would triumph at the 2014 World Cup.
With a number of natural leaders within the squad, there were many possible options that could have been given the armband by Joachim Low.
“We are in a lucky situation of having numerous leading figures who have what it takes to be captain. For me, Manuel Neuer is the logical successor to Bastian Schweinsteiger. He has everything that I could wish for from a leading player,” said the German coach.
“His performances are exceptional and Manuel is always there for the team. He’s a team player and an absolute role model. He also has great human qualities. He takes on responsibility, leads the way while remaining cool and relaxed.
“He’s highly regarded within the team while his word carries weight. While the responsibility will continue to be shared across many shoulders, I expect and I know that the leading players will work for the team, on and off the field.”
Neuer was clearly humbled to receive the captaincy, releasing the following statement via the DFB website:
“It’s a huge honour for me and it fills me with pride. We all know, though, that we need numerous leading players on the field if we want to be successful.”
“Of course I know that the role of captain has a great symbolic significance and I’m delighted with the faith that the national team coach has placed in me by naming me his captain.”
The golveman will lead Germany for the first time in their opening 2018 World Cup qualifier against Norway over the weekend.
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