They are finally starting to take notice of Ter Stegen in Germany
The Barça stopper's performance in Dortmund received plenty of praise back in Germany but there's concern whether he and Neuer can coexist
"I never feel scared. In life, I'm someone who likes to drive along the motorway quite fast but who wears a seatbelt at the same time." Manuel Neuer is one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation and he's coming up against another who has excelled since taking over the number one shirt at FC Barcelona.
Ter Stegen and Neuer are the modern brand of keepers who are great with the ball at their feet and often push up to essentially become an extra member in defence. Both are fighting to be Germany's first-choice keeper but Ter Stegen has admitted he isn't comfortable sitting on the bench.
"I'm sure that we'll see each other in the next meet up and we'll talk about it normally. Everything is in order."
Neuer spent a long period on the sidelines after struggling to overcome broken bones in his foot. At one point, he almost considered retirement.
"Obviously I heard what he said and I didn't like it because he could have just told me this himself. We're a team and I think we must do everything for us to win and this doesn't help. Honestly, I think the only reason for this is because I'm playing well," responded Neuer.
'SportBild' reported yesterday that the Bayern stopper is expected to retire from international football after Euro 2020. However, he expects to keep his place between the sticks - and as captain - until then.
Across Germany, many former goalkeepers understand ter Stegen's situation and are concerned that he won't be able to put aside his differences with Neuer in order to benefit the team.
The current Barça number one isn't afraid of taking someone on. He's battled Leno and Bravo before becoming first choice. Now he needs to do it once again for Germany.
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