Deniz Undav believes Manuel Neuer has already made a strong impact on the Germany squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Germany begin their campaign on Sunday as they face Group E opponents Curacao, with Neuer set to start in goal for Julian Nagelsmann's side.

Neuer initially retired from international football two years ago, but made a surprise return to the squad to displace Oliver Baumann.

The Bayern Munich goalkeeper helped Germany win the World Cup in 2014, winning the Golden Glove award in Brazil after keeping four clean sheets and making 23 saves (second-most).

Neuer is set to become the second German to play in five World Cups, after Lothar Matthaus. He would also be the second goalkeeper to appear in five editions of the tournament, after Mexico’s Antonio Carbajal.

Neuer's inclusion drew some criticism after Baumann impressed in their qualifying campaign, but Undav praised the veteran goalkeeper.

"Manu is always on the go. Manu talks a lot, even off the pitch. He commands respect," said the Germany striker.

"When he’s in goal, you can see it even in training – as a striker, you have to be a bit more precise with your shots.

"He’s one of the best goalkeepers of all time, but also a very calm man. When you talk to him, you can feel his experience and his understanding of football."

Germany are making their 21st World Cup appearance, more than any other European nation and second only to Brazil overall (23).

This will be the first ever encounter between Germany and Curacao; Germany have won 14 of their last 17 World Cup matches against teams from the Americas (D1 L2).

"Everyone is really excited for the first match. The focus is definitely there, everyone is giving it their all in training," Undav added.

"It would be very important to start the tournament successfully. Of course, we want to win.

"Becoming world champion is the goal. If I were to say now that we only want to reach the round of 16, then I’m in the wrong place.

"Every one of these guys has a goal – and that is to become world champion."