After FC Bayern’s 3-0 away win at Werder Bremen, there was still talk of a purely precautionary measure when Manuel Neuer was substituted at half-time. Vincent Kompany, Max Eberl and Christoph Freund initially gave the all-clear, and the captain himself celebrated with the travelling fans after the final whistle
Now there is clarity – and it is much more serious
As FC Bayern officially announced on Sunday, Neuer has suffered a fibre tear in his left calf. „FC Bayern Munich will have to do without its captain for the time being: Manuel Neuer suffered a fibre tear in his left calf during yesterday’s Bundesliga away match against SV Werder Bremen (3:0). This was the result of a thorough examination by FC Bayern’s medical department,“ read the press release
More than just a precautionary measure
It is therefore clear that the 39-year-old will be absent for longer than initially assumed. Neuer will definitely miss the Bundesliga games against Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund. How long the forced break will last in total depends on the exact healing process and subsequent rehabilitation. According to information from BILD, Neuer will be absent for at least three weeks
A realistic target is now likely to be the last 16 of the Champions League in March, where the record champions will need their number one in top form at the latest – assuming the calf plays along
Until then, Jonas Urbig will take over. The 22-year-old already replaced Neuer in Bremen after the break and once again made a composed impression. Coach Vincent Kompany has repeatedly emphasized his „full confidence“ in his young keeper. Internally, Urbig is already regarded as the designated successor should Neuer end his career in the medium term
The injury therefore also has a strategic component. Neuer’s contract expires in the summer and an extension is still open. The veteran has repeatedly emphasised that a decision depends largely on whether his body can still withstand the high stresses and strains. A fibre tear naturally does not fit into the picture
FC Bayern are now entering a delicate phase without their captain. In sporting terms, they are in a good position with Urbig – but the loss of Neuer still weighs heavily emotionally and structurally