"No longer possible"

Oliver Kahn has this advice for Manuel Neuer

At 38, Manuel Neuer is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world of soccer. Nevertheless, Oliver Kahn advises him to play fewer games.

"Back then, I ceded games here and there to Michael Rensing so I could regenerate and concentrate fully on the decisive games. Only he himself can decide how much longer he wants to play," the 86-time DFB team goalie told the German magazine "Sportbild". 

Oliver Kahn played for FC Bayern until 2008.(Bild: AFP)

Kahn, who ended his career in 2008 at the age of 39, only stood between the posts for Bayern in 26 Bundesliga games in his final season. Why? "At this age, it's no longer possible to play 50 to 60 games per season at the very highest level."

Question of timing
According to Kahn, it is important to find the right time to retire. "Getting the timing right is just as challenging as delivering world-class performances over the years," said the now 54-year-old. It is quite possible that the upcoming home European Championship will be Neuer's last dance in a DFB jersey. A title in front of his home fans would probably be the crowning glory.