Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich has shown self-criticism for a significant error during the spectacular Champions League semi-final qualification against Real Madrid. However, he also praised himself for a specific save.
The captain of the record German champions made a crucial mistake just 35 seconds into the match, handing the opposing team the fastest lead in the club’s Champions League history with a poor pass. The goal scorer, Arda Güler, also inflicted the earliest Champions League goal conceded by Bayern in their club’s history.
«For me, it was difficult in that situation. I wanted to play the ball to Stani (Josip Stanisic) on the right side. I hit it very badly. It was simply a terrible pass from me,» Neuer stated in the mixed zone about his blunder. He also noted that it served as a «wake-up call» for everyone, reminding them they are playing against Real Madrid and that anything can happen. «It’s naturally a stupid start for me, but I have to try to put it behind me and keep playing, as we always do.»
Neuer also did not look optimal during the goal that made it 1-2, as Güler curled a free-kick into the net. When asked if he saw the ball too late or if it was simply too well-placed, the veteran replied: «No, it was a superb shot. Also in terms of pace.» Speaking to DAZN about his error leading to the 0-1 deficit, Neuer again referred to it as a «terrible pass» from Bayern’s perspective and highlighted Güler’s strong left foot. «There was good power behind it, he can do that easily, and that’s what defines him.»
Sporting director Max Eberl added after the 4-3 victory, speaking to the DAZN microphone: «Of course, it wasn’t what we envisioned for today, and certainly not for Manu either. But that’s how it is in football. In one game you are the hero, and in the next, you are, in quotes, the fool at the beginning because you make the mistake.» In the first leg, Neuer’s numerous brilliant saves were a significant factor in the eventual 2-1 victory, and he was even named UEFA Player of the Match. However, it’s also true that in some instances, when the goalkeeper wanted to initiate play quickly – similar to Güler’s first strike – he hadn’t always made the best impression.
Neuer Praises Himself — Contract Extension Offer Not Yet Presented
Nevertheless, Eberl praised Neuer for his outstanding save in the 55th minute against Kylian Mbappé, which prevented a potential 2-4 deficit. «One must not forget that.» When asked about this particular save, Neuer couldn’t refrain from self-praise. «That was the decisive one. It was a super cross from Trent (Alexander-Arnold), he volleys it as a bouncing shot, and it goes high. Then it’s perhaps a classic save from me, how I made that stop,» he said.
Eberl emphasized that this one mistake would not decide the future of the now 40-year-old. «To base a contract extension or anything on one misplaced pass – and that is part of Manu’s game – that is not FC Bayern.» The number one’s contract, as is known, expires at the end of the season.
CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen stated that the decision on whether he will guard the Bayern goal for another year would lie solely with Neuer. However, Eberl explained that an offer has not yet been presented. «We have spoken with Manu. The discussions are only happening around us, but we are very, very clear with Manu. Manu has told us he wants to have these games in April now; everything will become clear then: his fitness, his mental freshness, his desire for another year. He has to signal that to us, then we will put things together, and then there would likely be a solution. Unless the demands are of an utopian nature. That is also a factor, of course. But I can’t imagine that.»
Neuer Extension Apparently ‘Likely’ — Urbig to Get More Playing Time
At the press conference before the second leg on Tuesday, Neuer announced that he would make a decision soon. «I don’t think it will take too much longer,» he added, «before I gather my courage and make a decision. And then there will naturally be discussions with the club.» Meanwhile, Sport Bild reported that a one-year extension for Neuer is now considered «likely.» However, this would come with the side effect that the 2014 World Cup winner would be used more sparingly next season. Neuer’s representative, Jonas Urbig, is expected to receive more playing time and thus be better prepared for the post-Neuer era. It is mentioned that the 22-year-old is slated to play 20 games.
Urbig has started 14 matches between the posts so far this season. He also benefited from Neuer having to take a forced break of almost a month at the beginning of the year due to two muscle injuries, missing six games as a result.
Neuer also had to rest around the international break at the end of March, missing a total of four games due to a muscle fiber tear. He returned at the beginning of April against SC Freiburg, shortly before the first clash with the Madrid team. This led to his 136th and 137th starts in the Champions League, allowing him to surpass none other than Lionel Messi (136). The undisputed leader in that ranking remains Real legend Iker Casillas with 149 starts in the Champions League, for now.
Manuel Neuer: Performance Data and Statistics This Season
| Games | 33 |
| Goals Conceded | 33 |
| Clean Sheets | 11 |