A significant question regarding the FC Bayern Munich squad may soon be answered. According to media reports, captain Manuel Neuer intends to continue his career.
Information from Sky suggests that Manuel Neuer has conveyed his desire to the FC Bayern Munich management to continue guarding the goal for the German record champions beyond the summer of 2026. To initiate negotiations, Neuer’s advisor, Thomas Kroth, visited Säbener Straße on Thursday. Initial discussions took place there with Sporting Director Max Eberl and CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen. Bild had also previously reported on this meeting.
While these discussions are not a mere formality, the chances of reaching an agreement are considered good. FCB officials have recently praised the 40-year-old repeatedly, making it clear that the decision to extend Neuer’s contract ultimately rests with Neuer himself. Honorary President Uli Hoeneß has also openly expressed his appreciation for Neuer, stating on the podcast ‘Auf eine weiß-blaue Tasse’: «Personally, if it were up to me, we would try to keep him for another year.»
Manuel Neuer Would Have to Accept Salary Reductions for Contract Extension
Neuer is currently still among the top earners at FCB, with an estimated gross salary of around 20 million Euros. However, as Sporting Director Max Eberl needs to reduce squad costs, Neuer would have to accept significant salary cuts for an extension. On the other hand, his earnings would naturally be even lower if his career ended. Furthermore, Neuer would take on a new role in the upcoming season: while he would still be the number 1 goalkeeper, he is also expected to act as more of a mentor for Jonas Urbig and help him gain regular playing experience. This means Neuer would also have to sit on the substitute’s bench from time to time, even if he were not injured.
Manuel Neuer at FC Bayern: A Bitter Evening Recently Against PSG
Neuer’s ability to continue to contribute significantly to FCB’s sporting success has been demonstrated several times this season with strong performances on the line. However, the goalkeeper experienced a completely unusual evening in the Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.
In the memorable 4-5 spectacle in the French capital, the 2014 World Cup winner conceded five goals without making a single error; the shots from the Paris offense, including Ousmane Dembele, were simply too good. Neuer even set a rather ignominious record: in Paris, he did not make a single save against shots on the Paris goal – a feat that had never occurred before in the history of the Champions League.