Bayern Munich goalkeeper and captain Manuel Neuer has encountered a setback in his recovery from a calf injury, delaying his return to action. The German club confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday.
Neuer has been sidelined since early March after tearing his calf muscle while celebrating a goal during Bayern’s Champions League last-16 first-leg victory over Bayer Leverkusen. The 38-year-old shot-stopper had recently resumed training with the ball, raising hopes of a swift comeback. However, he reinjured the same calf muscle during a training session over the weekend.
Bayern revealed that Neuer experienced a reaction in the affected muscle, necessitating a brief break from training. This latest setback casts doubt on his availability for Bayern’s upcoming Bundesliga fixture against St. Pauli on March 29. Additionally, his participation in the Champions League quarter-finals against Inter Milan in April is now uncertain.
The injury concerns extend beyond Neuer, as his primary back-up, 21-year-old Jonas Urbig, also faces fitness issues. Urbig was forced to miss Germany’s U21 international fixtures during the break due to a foot injury. With these developments, Bayern may need to rely on other goalkeeping options in their squad.
Among the alternatives available are Israel international Daniel Peretz and experienced German goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. Both players may be called upon to fill in for Neuer should he be unable to make a timely return.
Bayern currently lead the Bundesliga standings with a six-point advantage over second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, with eight league matches remaining in the season. As the title race intensifies, the club will be eager to have Neuer back in peak condition to reinforce their domestic and European ambitions.
The experienced goalkeeper remains a pivotal figure for Bayern, having played a crucial role in their numerous successes over the years. His leadership and shot-stopping ability have been instrumental in the team’s dominance in German football and their strong performances on the European stage.
Despite his age, Neuer has continued to perform at an elite level, maintaining his status as one of the world’s top goalkeepers. His absence, however, presents a challenge for Bayern, who will have to navigate crucial matches without their first-choice shot-stopper.
Bayern’s medical team will now work on ensuring Neuer’s complete recovery before he returns to competitive action. The club will closely monitor his progress in the coming days, hoping he can regain fitness in time for the decisive phase of the season.
The German champions are well aware of the importance of managing Neuer’s recovery carefully to avoid further complications. Rushing him back could risk aggravating the injury, potentially sidelining him for a more extended period.
As Bayern continue their pursuit of domestic and European success, the club and fans alike will be eager for positive updates regarding their captain’s condition. Meanwhile, the team’s depth in goalkeeping will be tested, with the potential for Ulreich or Peretz to step up if necessary.
With crucial fixtures on the horizon, Bayern’s ability to adapt to Neuer’s absence will be vital in their quest for silverware. The coming weeks will determine whether the veteran goalkeeper can recover in time to play a decisive role in Bayern’s season objectives.
