NUREMBERG, GERMANY - JUNE 03: Head Coach Julian Nagelsmann gives instructions to Manuel Neuer (L) during the international friendly match between Germany and Ukraine at Max-Morlock-Stadion on June 03, 2024 in Nuremberg, Germany. (Photo by Markus Gilliar - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images) | Getty Images The rumor mill continues to spin, connecting Manuel Neuer with a potential return to Julian Nagelsmann’s German national team ahead of the World Cup. Neuer’s Champions League heroics sparked the latest round of gossip and has, once again, unearthed the history of Nagelsmann’s tumultuous relationship with the 40-year-old shot-stopper.

Neuer endured “the worst thing” he’d experienced in his career as a result of Nagelsmann’s decision to sack Toni Tapalović — the Bayern captain’s goalkeeping coach and best friend. Despite Neuer and Nagelsmann’s ensuing fallout, the German national team coach claims the rift between the pair has been bridged, even declaring that they have a “very good relationship.”Nagelsmann addressed the fresh set of rumors, as well as the attached controversy, in an interview with MagentaTV.“I always find it quite amusing when the public asks me if I’m in contact with Manu,” said Nagelsmann before divulging some details on his relationship with Neuer (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).

“Yes, I am. We talk on the phone now and then, and we text each other occasionally. He can use WhatsApp, and so can I. We also talk about other topics from time to time, things that go beyond football.

We have a very good relationship. Manu retired of his own accord. He has repeated this several times now. Therefore, I don’t think it makes much sense to constantly discuss that.”Nagelsmann’s statement stinks of a toxic breakup trying to be kept civil for the sake of the friend group.

However, Neuer’s cuts run deep. The German goalkeeper has saved thousands of shots throughout his career, but Nagelsmann’s decision proved to be the only one capable of crumbling “The Wall” into a pile of bricks. Neuer may have forgiven the 38-year-old manager, but he certainly hasn’t forgotten. Even if Nagelsmann calls Neuer up to the national team, the real question is: is a functional relationship possible after their devastating breakup?