Manuel Neuer ‘unlikely to retire early’ after Bayern Munich injury

Manuel Neuer is not expected to bring forward his retirement despite suffering an injury that will keep him out for about two months, according to Sky Sports.

The Bayern Munich goalkeeper partially tore a tendon in his right foot during the Bundesliga match against Mainz, having only just returned from a previous injury.

Neuer was unable to complete the first half and was replaced by Jonas Urbig. The latest setback has raised concerns about the 40-year-old’s physical condition and prompted German media to question whether he could retire before the end of his contract in June 2027.

However, Sky Sports reports that an early retirement is considered unlikely. Neuer intends to complete the season and end his playing career according to the plan previously established.

Bayern Munich have nevertheless begun searching for a goalkeeper, either as a new first choice or as a second option depending on their requirements. Oliver Baumann, Bernd Leno and Loris Karius are among the names being considered, along with other candidates.

Neuer focused on recovery

Neuer, who is Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper and captain, addressed supporters after sustaining the injury against Mainz but made no reference to his future or to speculation that he could retire at the end of the current season.

In a message posted on his personal Instagram account, he said: “An injury never comes at a good time, but it is part of the game. I have been through this before and I will overcome it this time too. From now on, my entire focus will be on recovery. Until then, I will support my team-mates on the pitch with everything I have. I truly appreciate all your words of encouragement.”

Despite the injury, Neuer made history during the Mainz match by becoming the oldest player to appear for Bayern Munich in a Bundesliga fixture. He was 40 years and 225 days old.

Champions League record

Neuer had also reached another milestone earlier in the season during Bayern Munich’s Champions League league-phase meeting with Atletico Madrid.

After being named in the starting line-up on matchday four, he made his 164th appearance in the competition. That moved him clear at the top of the list of German players with the most Champions League appearances, surpassing former Bayern team-mate Thomas Muller, who finished with 163.

The appearance also lifted Neuer to third place in the all-time Champions League rankings. He moved ahead of both Lionel Messi and Muller, who each made 163 appearances.

Only Cristiano Ronaldo, with 183 Champions League appearances, and Iker Casillas, with 177, have played in the competition more often than Neuer.