FC Bayern are already planning internally for a possible end to Manuel Neuer’s career – a successor is apparently already in place
Manuel Neuer’s future at FC Bayern is currently open. The 39-year-old’s contract expires on 30 June 2026 and a decision on a possible extension is still pending. According to Sport BILD, there are now even initial doubts internally as to whether the world champion will continue his career beyond the summer
According to the report, the probability of him continuing his career is currently around 50 per cent. A final decision could be made at the end of March, when not only the next international break is coming up, but also Neuer’s 40th birthday. Until then, the goalkeeper should take time to think about his future
Recently, there has been much to suggest an extension. Neuer continues to play a stable season and was even considered a candidate for a return to goal for the national team. Internally, it has long been assumed that he could stay at FC Bayern for at least another year
Urbig as possible Neuer successor
However, the record champions already have a clear plan in the event of Neuer retiring. Internally, the scenario of a retirement is said to have already been discussed. Jonas Urbig would then be given the chance to become the new number one in the Bayern goal
The 22-year-old was signed from 1. FC Köln in January 2025. Munich paid a transfer fee of around seven million euros for him, which could rise to up to ten million euros due to bonus payments. Urbig signed a contract until 2029 and is seen as a long-term solution for the future in goal
Much is still open behind Urbig too
However, it is unclear what the hierarchy behind Urbig would look like. Alexander Nübel, who is currently on loan to VfB Stuttgart, is not considered a planned number two and could be sold in the summer
Daniel Peretz, currently on loan to Southampton, is also not considered unsellable internally. Although a role as backup keeper would be possible, it does not necessarily correspond to the Israeli international goalkeeper’s expectations
The contract of another Bayern goalkeeper, Sven Ulreich, also expires in the summer. The 37-year-old is expected to be offered a different role at the club. Should both Neuer and Ulreich end their careers, Munich could even consider signing an experienced second goalkeeper.