By Oliver Trust

BERLIN, March 21 (Xinhua) -- The medical history of Manuel Neuer seems to be evolving into an endless saga of setbacks. Just before the crucial friendlies against the 2018 world champion France and the Netherlands, the 37-year-old goalkeeper's latest injury came as an unpleasant surprise for the newly formed German national team and coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Merely a day after the German coach announced his selection of the Bayern keeper as his number one for the 2024 UEFA Euro this summer, the 2014 world champion had to withdraw due to a muscle injury and returned to his club in Munich. Neuer had only recently recovered from a complicated bone fracture resulting from a skiing accident, which had forced him into a break of over a year. His return to the national team was anticipated after a 15-month absence.

While Neuer's withdrawal may not significantly disadvantage the team sportively, with Barcelona keeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen stepping in, it does add to the uncertainty surrounding the wavering German side. Despite Nagelsmann's appointment as successor to Hansi Flick only a few months ago, stability in the team remains elusive just a few months ahead of the Euro tournament.

Despite the uncertain outcome of Nagelsmann's tenure, there are plans within the associations to extend the 36-year-old coach's contract beyond the Euro. Various media reports suggest that discussions are underway to offer a long-term contract contingent on certain goals being achieved during the tournament on home soil.

Additionally, there are plans in the works to develop a joint strategy for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the US, as reported by sports magazine kicker. Nagelsmann himself has expressed his intention to clarify his future, whether with a club or the national team, before the Euro begins if possible.

Meanwhile, tensions are rising as the upcoming encounters against France and the Dutch side serve as the final tests before the squad announcement in May. Both games are crucial, as German fans' enthusiasm is closely tied to positive results, especially following several disappointments in recent World Cups and European Championships.

The German coach is expected to utilize these games to test various positions, although most slots in the starting 11 seem to be filled. In defense, Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah and Real star Antonio Ruediger, along with Bayern full-back Joshua Kimmich, are likely choices. In midfield, players like Ilkay Guendogan, returning Real star Toni Kroos, and young talents Jamal Musiala (Bayern) and Florian Wirtz (Leverkusen) are favored, while decisions are still pending for the holding six, the left-back, and a striker position.

Nagelsmann has emphasized the importance of internal competition within the team, particularly after appointing several newcomers, and he expects passion and fighting spirit from his players. Pressure is mounting around the Euro 2024 host as the tournament draws nearer. Enditem

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