Manuel Neuer’s future at FC Bayern is more open than ever. Following his clear decision to retire from the national team, there are increasing signs that the 39-year-old is also thinking about calling it a day in Munich
in the BILD podcast„Bayern Insider“, a possible end to Neuer’s career was discussed – and both BILD head of soccer Christian Falk and his colleague Julian Agard came to a surprisingly clear assessment
Just a few months ago, a contract extension for Manuel Neuer at FC Bayern was considered likely. The veteran seemed determined to hang on for at least another season. But after his latest appearance in the podcast, the situation suddenly looks different
Clear decision not to play in the World Cup – signal with effect?
The new dynamic was triggered by Neuer’s clear statement about the national team. When asked whether he would return to the German goal once again, he answered simply and clearly: „No.“ For Falk, this was a turning point. „Lid on,“ he classified – and thus ended months of discussion
Agardi also sensed a new finality in Neuer’s words. „That already sounded very much like finality,“ he explained in the podcast. In soccer, nothing is ever out of the question, „but I don’t see how he wants to get out of it now“
The key question now is: if Neuer decides not to play in the 2026 World Cup – is that possibly also a sign of his future at FC Bayern? Agardi puts it bluntly: „If he says that so clearly now, I’m not sure whether it could even be over in the summer.“
An assessment that Falk also shares. „Maybe he really will quit,“ he said after the game – and surprisingly clearly. Before the game, he would have clearly tipped for an extension. But the new clarity in Neuer’s demeanour raises doubts
Reports within FCB suggest that the decision is currently „50:50“. Bayern want to use the upcoming international break to hold decisive talks with Neuer. No official offer of an extension has yet been made
Triple as the perfect farewell?
One factor plays a role that should not be underestimated: the sporting situation. FC Bayern is on course to win the treble. If the record champions actually win the championship, DFB Cup and Champions League, it would be an almost perfect end to Neuer’s career
„There couldn’t be a better end to his career,“ explains Agardi. After more than a decade at FC Bayern, countless titles and historic moments, a farewell at the pinnacle of his sporting career would be an almost romantic solution
At the same time, a final decision has not yet been made. Neuer still looks physically competitive, his performances are stable, even if he does make minor mistakes like the one he made against Hoffenheim recently. But for the first time, a voluntary retirement seems realistic.