Manuel Neuer has been named as Germany’s captain following Bastian Schweinsteiger‘s international retirement.
The Bayern Munich goalkeeper has won 71 caps for his country since making his debut in 2009 and is now one of the most experienced players in Joachim Loew’s squad.
Schweinsteiger stepped down from the role following Germany’s 2-0 friendly win over Finland on Wednesday and Neuer, 30, will now take over the mantle for the World Champions.
“For me it is a great honour,” Neuer said.
“It makes me proud to be captain of the team but we all know that we need several leading players on the pitch if we are to succeed.
“The crucial things are already discussed in the team committee and decided together. Of course I know that the captaincy has great symbolic significance.
“I am very pleased with the confidence that gives me the coach with the appointment as captain. ”
Neuer is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, having helped establish Bayern’s dominance in the Bundesliga and win the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Schweinsteiger has been one of the leaders of the German national team for many years and himself succeeded Philipp Lahm as captain of the side after the World Cup triumph.
But his lack of playing time at current club Manchester United meant he felt the need to call time on his international career, and Loew is happy with his skipper’s credentials.
“We are in the fortunate position with the national team where there are several leading players that have the size and the profile of a captain,” he said.
“For me Manuel Neuer is the logical place of Bastian Schweinsteiger: He brings everything I want from a captain. His sporting achievements are outstanding, Manuel is always for the team because he is a team player and an absolute model.”
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