German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has made the decision to sit out the forthcoming fixtures against Turkey and Austria, citing that the games come "too soon" as he continues his rehabilitation after injury.
The Bayern Munich captain recently made his comeback after almost a year on the sidelines due to a broken leg and has participated in three matches for his club since his return.
The 2014 World Cup-winning goalkeeper disclosed that he has maintained regular communication with Germany's coach, Julian Nagelsmann, and expressed that he "would not be available for selection."
"I still need time, and the matches are too soon," explained the 37-year-old Neuer.
Germany is set to host Turkey in Berlin on November 18, followed by a game against Austria in Vienna three days later.
Acknowledging that Marc-Andre ter Stegen of Barcelona currently holds the role of the national team's primary goalkeeper, Neuer has shifted his focus to making a comeback for Euro 2024, which Germany will host. Neuer remarked, "Everything that happens now for me is just a bonus. I'm an ambitious and determined guy. I want to give the team as much as possible, and regardless of which team it is, I want to be on the field. I will give everything to be back next year."
Bayern Munich's coach, Thomas Tuchel, praised Neuer, describing him as a "sensational" goalkeeper, adding, "With the style and manner in which he plays, you cannot praise him enough. He's not fully back yet, but he will find his old strength again. He makes the players around him better."
Julian Nagelsmann, the former Bayern and RB Leipzig coach who assumed the role of Germany's head coach in September, will announce his squad for the November friendlies on Friday. Nagelsmann has already stated that Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan will retain the captain's armband in the absence of Neuer.
