What’s wrong with Manuel Neuer?
Uncertainty plunges FC Bayern into a dilemma
7/9/2023 3:26 p.m
Actually, Manuel Neuer should return to the goal of FC Bayern this season after his serious injury. But his return may be delayed again. For the people of Munich, this uncertainty becomes a problem. Because several decisions depend on it.
Manuel Neuer probably had a clear plan on his way back to number 1 in the Bayern goal. Participate in team training again at the start of the pre-season, then go on a tour of Asia with the Munich team and wear the FCB jersey again when the Bundesliga starts on August 18. According to media reports, the lengthy rehabilitation could now thwart Neuer’s plans. And his replacement Yann Sommer, who is said to be in talks with Inter Milan, could think more about staying in Munich.
FC Bayern can look back on an exciting week. When the pros return to Säbener Strasse, there will be many big question marks hanging over the Munich training ground. In addition to the goalkeeper question, Harry Kane’s hoped-for transfer of millions is far from sealed. The obligatory medical checks for all players are due on Thursday. The performance diagnostics take place on Friday.
Further investigations at Neuer necessary
According to Sky information, Neuer should then undergo new examinations. It is unclear in which condition the 37-year-old will return after his vacation in Costa Rica. There are indications that his comeback to team training after breaking his lower leg in December will be delayed.
When the Munich star ensemble sets off for the five-day training camp at Tegernsee on Saturday, Neuer will “highly likely” still train individually, according to Sky. It also seems questionable whether the FIFA World Goalkeeper of the Year 2020 will accompany Munich on the Asia trip to Tokyo and Singapore (July 24th to August 3rd). “It is currently more realistic that the national goalkeeper will be working on Säbener Straße in the meantime,” writes Sky.
If Neuer’s comeback is postponed, this could also have an impact on Sommer’s sporting future. Recently, there were many indications that the 34-year-old Swiss would be leaving, as he does not want to be satisfied with the role of reservist in Munich. The keeper needs a regular place in order to be able to win the duel with Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel in the goal of the Swiss with a view to the European Championship.
Nübel’s departure already seems certain
Sommer is contractually bound to Munich until mid-2025. According to reports, however, he has an exit clause and can leave the record champions for almost nine million euros. Champions League finalists Inter Milan should prepare an offer for the goalkeeper. Sommer is also repeatedly associated with VfB Stuttgart.
If Neuer is out for a longer period, FC Bayern can hardly afford to let the summer go. After all, a departure from Alexander Nübel is almost certain. And just starting the season with Sven Ulreich and Johannes Schenk is absolutely out of the question. Sommer had announced that after his vacation – i.e. in the coming days – he would meet with the club managers.
While the Munich fans are looking forward to further developments in the goalkeeper question, a transfer is almost certain. In order to make the signing of the South Korean Min-Jae Kim completely perfect, only the official announcement is missing. According to Sky information, Munich have agreed on a five-year contract with the defender from SSC Napoli until the summer of 2028. While Neuer’s participation in the training camp is uncertain, Kim should be there at Tegernsee.