Lothar Matthäus has taken a clear stance on Manuel Neuer’s future at FC Bayern. On the sidelines of the Legends Cup in Munich’s SAP Garden, the record international commented on both the goalkeeper’s contract situation and the recently growing calls for a DFB comeback
The background is well-known: Neuer’s contract with FC Bayern expires at the end of June. Despite his age of 39, the 2014 world champion continues to put in strong performances – most recently in Munich’s convincing 5:1 victory in the Bundesliga top match at RB Leipzig. Accordingly, there is intense discussion about whether the captain will extend his contract once again or possibly end his career in the summer
For Matthäus, the matter is clear. The former Bayern professional would continue to tie the keeper to the club. „I would definitely extend it. I think they are in talks. But apparently FC Bayern and Manuel Neuer want more time,“ explained the 64-year-old, making it clear that he has no doubts about Neuer’s sporting value to the team
Should Manuel Neuer also return to the national team?
Matthäus, however, takes a different stance on the question of a possible return to the national team. Neuer announced his retirement from the DFB team in August 2024, but recently there have been repeated calls for a comeback for the 2026 World Cup. Matthäus clearly puts the brakes on this discussion
„Manuel made a point, national coach Julian Nagelsmann made a point behind it,“ said the TV pundit with regard to the resignation at the time. Although Neuer showed his class again against Leipzig, Matthäus believes the issue is basically closed. „Of course, Manuel Neuer’s performance against Leipzig on Saturday was sensational again with two or three world-class saves. But if something doesn’t want to come together or doesn’t fit together, then you should make a point behind it.“
Matthäus has Baumann’s back
Instead, Matthäus points to the current number one in the DFB goal: „I believe that in Baumann we currently have a goalkeeper who is doing a good job. Now we should just stop having these discussions,“ said the 1990 World Cup winner
However, Matthäus does not want to completely rule out a new development, leaving a small loophole open: „If something should change, because something has to change, then those responsible should talk together,“ he explained
One thing is clear: while Matthäus is calling for calm at national team level, he is clearly in favour of Neuer staying at club level. How FC Bayern and its captain decide will probably become clear in the coming months.