The next bad news for FC Bayern: Manuel Neuer will be absent for longer than feared – and will definitely miss the Bundesliga top match at Borussia Dortmund
As reported by Sky, the 39-year-old will be out for at least three weeks, meaning that Neuer will not be able to make the trip to Dortmund on 28 February. This is the next setback for the record champions after the already serious diagnosis of a fibre tear in his left calf
After the 3-0 away win at Werder Bremen, there had initially been talk of a precautionary measure when Neuer was substituted at half-time. Coach Vincent Kompany and those responsible had tried to assess the situation. However, the detailed examinations brought the sobering certainty: the captain will have to take a break – and for longer than hoped
A forced break of at least three weeks means that Neuer will miss the match against Eintracht Frankfurt as well as the clash with BVB. The game in Dortmund in particular is regarded as a key match in the title race. Bayern will have to hold their own there without their regular number one
Urbig moves back into focus
Neuer will continue to be deputized for by Jonas Urbig. The 22-year-old came into the game in Bremen after the break and put in a commanding performance. Kompany had already emphasized several times that he had „full confidence“ in his young keeper
It is now the next big test for Urbig – at a time when Bayern are fighting for crucial points in several competitions. Munich are also hoping that Neuer will be ready for action again in time for the Champions League in March
The injury also has an additional explosive element: Neuer’s contract expires in the summer and the future of the world champion is still open. Recently, those responsible had emphasized that they wanted to make a decision without time pressure. A prolonged absence in the middle of the season inevitably raises new questions
One thing is certain: FC Bayern will have to make do without its captain in the top match in Dortmund, and hopes are once again pinned on Jonas Urbig.