Manuel Neuer comments on ter Stegen being Germany’s first choice over him

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has not enjoyed a good start to the new season, having conceded 12 goals in 11 matches so far.

However, one thing that has been going for him lately is that the Barcelona superstar has been able to establish himself as Germany’s number one, at least for now.

Ter Stegen has indeed featured consistently for Germany in between the sticks, especially under the leadership of newly-appointed Julian Nagelsmann.

Ter Stegen was supremely helped by the fact that veteran ‘keeper Manuel Neuer had picked up a serious injury at the end of 2022, which had kept him out for almost a year.

Manuel Neuer on Ter Stegen

Having recently returned from injury, Neuer has recently spoken to the media about ter Stegen becoming Germany’s number one.

“Yes, he is definitely number 1 currently. We have great goalkeepers in Germany and are all looking forward to the Euros. I was in contact with Julian Nagelsmann yesterday and he wished me good luck. For me, everything is totally relaxed,” he told Patrick Strasser.

To things into perspective, Neuer has not played for Germany for almost a year, with his last appearance coming in the 2022 World Cup group stage game against Costa Rica.

Since then, ter Stegen has predominantly featured as the number-one choice for Germany, both under Hansi Flick and Nagelsmann.

Warning signs for Ter Stegen

There are, however, warning signs for ter Stegen, as he looks to keep hold of his status as the number one goalkeeper for Germany.

For one, the Barcelona goalkeeper has performed nowhere near last season’s levels and has one of the lowest saving percentages in La Liga this season.

In addition, Neuer has finally returned from injury and is expected to be considered by Nagelsmann, sooner rather than later.

Ter Stegen, therefore, must step up and improve his performances for both and country, if he is to retain his place in between the sticks.