Neuer targets ‘everything’ as Bayern Munich begin Champions League campaign

Manuel Neuer says Bayern Munich have entered the new season determined to win every trophy available, with the veteran goalkeeper identifying “small details” as the difference between the club and a return to Champions League glory.

Bayern Munich begin their European campaign against Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt on Thursday, and Neuer warned that the visitors must not be underestimated despite the difference in reputation between the two clubs.

“We have not finished our analysis yet, but we know we will face a strong team,” Neuer said at his pre-match news conference. “They are a typical Norwegian team that can fight, but at the same time they are good at playing football.

“They have experience in the Champions League and have shown that they are not afraid of big names. We know what their results have been against other strong teams. They play without fear and have nothing to lose, while there is also stability within the team.

“Their coach has been in charge since 2018, and everyone knows we cannot underestimate them.”

Neuer also addressed the question of who will start in goal against Bodø/Glimt, with Jonas Urbig competing for the position.

“The coach is the one who decides,” Neuer said. “We communicate, but there is no prior agreement about tomorrow’s match. Urbig and I are ready, and everyone expects that they could play. In the end, the coach makes the choice.

“I have a feeling that I will play, and I am preparing well for it.”

Bayern are again regarded as one of the leading contenders for the competition, although Neuer believes the clearest favourites will only emerge once the knockout stage begins.

“As usual, I think the contenders are similar to those from previous years,” he said. “Barcelona also have a strong team. The favourites will become clearer in the knockout rounds, and every team will go through periods of highs and lows.”

The German champions were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in last season’s semi-finals after a series of demanding matches, including a meeting with Real Madrid. Neuer believes Bayern’s recent experience can help them go one step further this time.

“What we are missing to win the Champions League is the small details,” he said. “We have come close several times. Last season we played strong matches against Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, and experience also helps us.

“Our biggest objective is to win the trophy. We have suffered painful defeats, but they also give us motivation. We want to play the final in Madrid next summer.”

Neuer, who has continued his career in the Bayern squad, said the ambition to compete for the biggest honours was one of the reasons he decided to remain in football.

“I enter the season aiming to achieve everything we can achieve,” he said. “I believe we have the necessary qualities within our team. That is also one of the reasons for my decision to continue playing.

“I know that everything is possible with this team, this coaching staff and the spirit we have. It would mean a great deal to me to win the Champions League for a third time.

“We know we will face strong teams, and we simply have to do our job and focus on the start.”