Neuer, Manuel (1986-…), is a German professional soccer player. Soccer is called football in much of the world. Neuer is one of the game’s best goalkeepers. He has started for the German national team, commonly known as Die Adler (The Eagles), since 2010. Neuer also plays for FC Bayern Munich, one of soccer’s greatest teams. FC stands for football club. A proven winner and outstanding shot-blocker, Neuer is sometimes known by the nickname “Manu.” For a discussion of soccer positions and formations, see Soccer (Players and officials).
Manuel Peter Neuer was born on March 27, 1986, in Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine- Westphalia. He began playing soccer at a young age. Neuer began his professional career with his hometown FC Schalke 04 in 2006. Schalke is part of the Bundesliga, Germany’s top soccer league.
In 2009, Neuer played his first match for the German national team. He started in goal for Germany during the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament. FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association (International Federation of Association Football). FIFA is soccer’s world governing body.
In 2011, Neuer transferred to Schalke’s Bundesliga rival, Bayern Munich. In 2013, he led Bayern Munich to the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League title. The Champions League is an annual tournament among Europe’s top professional clubs. In 2014, Neuer led Germany to its fourth World Cup championship. He won the Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Neuer again played for Germany in the 2018 World Cup in Russia and in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
