Jonas Urbig is considered the designated successor to Manuel Neuer at FC Bayern. The 23-year-old is expected to become the number one goalkeeper for the German record champions in the long term, once Neuer retires. But not all experts are convinced that the youngster is already up to this daunting task. Former Schalke goalkeeper Ralf Fährmann has now expressed clear doubts about Urbig’s suitability as Bayern’s future starting goalkeeper.
Due to Neuer’s recent injury problems, Urbig has once again been given the opportunity to prove himself at the highest level. The former Cologne player was also between the posts during the 6-1 rout of RB Leipzig.
However, Fährmann is far from convinced that the 23-year-old can consistently meet the enormous demands at FC Bayern.
Fährmann: “You need a certain presence.”
On SPORT1’s “Doppelpass,” the former Schalke goalkeeper first praised the Bayern prospect’s soccer skills and technical abilities. Urbig is an “outstanding goalkeeper who has programmed his movements like a robot and is truly top-notch,” he said.
But that’s precisely where the problem lies. At FC Bayern, different qualities are required than at many other clubs. “But we’re talking about Bayern Munich. It’s not enough to simply be a perfect goalkeeper. You need an aura, a certain level of experience, a certain charisma,” Fährmann emphasized.
As an example, the 38-year-old pointed to Yann Sommer, who—despite his experience—was repeatedly viewed critically during his time in Munich.
Fährmann also cited former Bayern goalkeepers Michael Rensing and Thomas Kraft.
“It’s difficult to develop a goalkeeper from within the club who can then handle the pressure of playing for Bayern Munich,” the former pro explained.
“I don’t see that in Jonas Urbig.”
Fährmann is particularly critical of the direct comparison between Urbig and Manuel Neuer.
Before his move to Munich, the current Bayern captain had already played numerous games for Schalke 04 and proven himself both internationally and on the national team. “Manuel Neuer had already played a lot of games for Schalke, had played in the Champions League and for the national team, and had a certain standing at Schalke,” Fährmann recalled.
The decisive difference, he said, was experience.
“He had the experience and the presence, and he’d already proven himself. I don’t see that in Jonas Urbig.”
For the Bayern youngster, these statements are a clear challenge. However, the Munich club is deliberately taking a different approach with Urbig.
The goalkeeper is being developed gradually, gaining experience behind Neuer, and is expected to grow into the role of starting goalkeeper over the long term.
Even Fährmann doesn’t question that Urbig has the necessary talent. Whether he can also develop the charisma and leadership skills required of a Bayern goalkeeper remains to be seen.