Didi Hamann backs Bayern goalkeeper to replace Manuel Neuer as Germany number one

Didi Hamann believes that Bayern Munich goalkeeper Alexander Nübel deserves the opportunity to replace Manuel Neuer as the next Germany number one.

Manuel Neuer announced his retirement from the Germany national team earlier this week, and the expectation is that the Bayern Munich goalkeeper will be replaced by Marc-André ter Stegen. The FC Barcelona star could finally get an extended opportunity between the sticks for Julian Nagelsmann's side, and will hope to cement his status as Germany's new first-choice goalkeeper.

Didi Hamann backs Alexander Nübel over Marc-André ter Stegen

But Didi Hamann is of the opinion that Alexander Nübel would be better suited to replace Neuer, as he would offer the team a more long-term option than ter Stegen.

"In Alexander Nübel, you have a goalkeeper who, in my opinion, could be the DFB goalkeeper for the next three or four tournaments. He's five years younger than ter Stegen and for me he's the best [option] at the moment. I would toy with the idea of putting Nübel in goal at the next World Cup," Hamann said (via Sky Sport).

Nübel spent last season on loan at VfB Stuttgart and played a crucial role in their second place finish in the Bundesliga. The 27 year old will hope to lead the Swabians to another successful season and stake a claim to replace Neuer as the first-choice goalkeeper for Germany.

Bayern Munich are also planning to replace Neuer with Nübel once the former decides to hang up his gloves. Neuer, 38, has no plans to retire from club football just yet. And reports claim that he could even extend his career beyond the end of the current season.