Manuel Neuer is still in goal for FC Bayern. Nevertheless, the 40-year-old is already thinking about the future and has a clear favorite to succeed him. The record-breaking champion’s longtime starting goalkeeper is expected to end his career in the summer of 2027—and sees Jonas Urbig as his successor. The 23-year-old has taken on increasing responsibility in recent months and has earned the trust of his prominent competitor in the process.
Manuel Neuer has extended his contract with FC Bayern by another year. This makes it clear that he will remain between the posts next season. At the same time, there are signs that this could be his final season. Neuer sees his teammate Jonas Urbig as his natural successor.
In an interview with DAZN, Neuer emphasized that his role within the goalkeeping group has long gone beyond his own level of performance. The 40-year-old wants to help Urbig continue to develop and eventually become the number one himself.
“It’s exactly the same responsibility I’ve carried for the past year and a half. It’s my goal—our shared goal—for him to continue developing and take the next step toward becoming the number one goalkeeper at FC Bayern and on the national team in the long term,” Neuer explained.
Neuer believes Urbig is capable of taking the next step
Urbig had several opportunities to prove himself on the big stage last season. The goalkeeper impressed not only with his skills on the goal line but especially with his composure in difficult situations.
Neuer has also taken note of this development. The experienced Bayern goalkeeper already sees in the youngster the key qualities a goalkeeper needs at the highest level.
“He’s had some good games and remained calm and composed under pressure. He’s definitely ready for the big stage,” said Neuer.
For Urbig, this is remarkable praise. After all, it’s not often that a goalkeeper with Manuel Neuer’s experience singles out his own potential successor so clearly.
Competition remains fierce
Despite the positive comments, the relationship between the two Bayern goalkeepers remains one of competition. Neuer is still the established starting goalkeeper and holds a high standing with the record-breaking champions. Jonas Urbig recently described the relationship between the two goalkeepers as “friendly rivals.”
Urbig must therefore continue to earn his spot. At the same time, the support of his experienced colleague should help him take the next step in his development.
Neuer apparently does not see his role as an obstacle for Urbig, but rather as an opportunity. He wants to pass on his experience and prepare the young goalkeeper for what lies ahead in the long term.