The goalkeeper situation at FC Bayern has been on the minds of club officials for quite some time. While the German record champions still have an experienced, world-class goalkeeper in Manuel Neuer, the long-term succession plan for the now 40-year-old must be addressed. Honorary President Uli Hoeneß now has a clear vision of what the future should look like in Munich’s goal.
In an interview with *WELT am Sonntag*, the 74-year-old spoke out clearly in favor of Jonas Urbig. The 23-year-old has long been considered Neuer’s designated successor, and, according to Hoeneß, should be given the chance to establish himself permanently as the number one goalkeeper for the record champions.
In doing so, the longtime Bayern decision-maker leaves no doubt whatsoever about the young goalkeeper’s abilities. He also apparently does not consider a costly transfer of an internationally established goalkeeper to be necessary.
“Jonas Urbig will get this chance.”
When asked whether he believed Urbig was capable of making the leap to become the number one at FC Bayern, Hoeneß responded with a remarkably clear statement. “I have absolutely no doubt about it. It’s a very wise decision. Jonas Urbig will get this chance. Everyone at FC Bayern is prepared for it.”
For Hoeneß, the former Cologne player not only has the athletic credentials but also impresses off the field. “Based on his performances on the field and his character, he deserves this chance. Then we’ll see how things go from there. He has what it takes to succeed.”
In doing so, the honorary president is publicly backing the young goalkeeper. At the same time, he makes it clear that the Munich club is prepared to rely on a player who has not yet gained consistent starting experience at a top European club to succeed Neuer.
Hoeneß backs Urbig
Hoeneß does not view the fact that Urbig has never played as the undisputed number one at a world-class club as a decisive obstacle.
Rather, he sees little value in investing a high transfer fee in a supposedly more experienced successor. “So should we spend 50 million euros on a goalkeeper just because he’s played a few Champions League games and a few know-it-alls are demanding it? Absolutely not.”
With this statement, Hoeneß clearly rules out an expensive transfer for the goalkeeper position.
It was recently reported that Bayern is exploring possible alternatives or additions for the upcoming season. Among others, Bernd Leno and Finn Dahmen are said to be on Munich’s radar.
Hoeneß’s comments, however, underscore that club officials intend to rely on Urbig for the long term. An experienced new signing wouldn’t necessarily have to take on the role of the future starting goalkeeper.
One thing is certain: Hoeneß wants to give the 23-year-old the opportunity to follow in Manuel Neuer’s footsteps. Whether Urbig is actually up to this enormous challenge is something he should be allowed to prove on the field.