Manuel Neuer was forced to withdraw at half-time in FC Bayern’s 3-0 away win in Bremen. Calf problems forced the 39-year-old to stay in the dressing room. He was replaced by Jonas Urbig, who played a confident second half and once again proved that he is ready to take on responsibility
According to Sky, Neuer will initially sit out team training. Further examinations are expected to clarify the exact diagnosis. After the game, those responsible spoke of a „precautionary measure“ and tried to classify the situation. It was „no worse“, emphasised sporting director Christoph Freund with regard to the captain’s state of health
Nevertheless, a question mark remains over the next Bundesliga match against Eintracht Frankfurt. As things stand, it is unlikely that Neuer will play. Even if the veteran will do everything in his power to get fit in time, those in charge at Säbener Straße do not want to take any risks – especially not at this crucial stage of the season
Urbig ready for the next chance
If Neuer is indeed ruled out next Saturday, Jonas Urbig will once again take his place between the posts. The 22-year-old put in a composed performance in Bremen and exuded his usual calm. Coach Vincent Kompany made it clear after the final whistle that he has full confidence in his replacement keeper. „We have total faith in Jonas,“ explained the Belgian
The situation is delicate for Bayern, but not dramatic. With a view to the upcoming weeks in the Bundesliga, cup and Champions League, the focus is on load management. An ailing Neuer would do more damage to the record champions in the long term than a cautious decision not to play against Frankfurt
Whether the captain will be given the green light in time will be decided in the coming days. One thing is clear: Munich will not be rushing into anything – even when it comes to their number 1.