Manuel Neuer Sidelined After Injury
Manuel Neuer Sidelined After Injury
Bayern’s Captain Faces a Lengthy Absence
3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League Round of 16.
The 38-year-old picked up the injury in the 54th minute, moments after Jamal Musiala scored Bayern’s second goal.
As Neuer attempted to sprint towards his teammates in celebration, he felt a sharp pain in his calf.
Although he initially tried to continue, he signalled to referee Michael Oliver just four minutes later that he could no longer play.
Jonas Urbig, Bayern’s 21-year-old reserve goalkeeper, replaced him.
Bayern Confirms Neuer’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
Following the match, Bayern Munich released an official statement confirming the injury.
“Manuel Neuer has suffered a muscle tear in his right calf. This was confirmed after examinations by the club’s medical team. As a result, he will not be available for selection for the time being.”
The injury rules Neuer out of key Bundesliga fixtures against VfL Bochum, Union Berlin, and St. Pauli.
He will also miss the crucial second leg of the Champions League tie against Leverkusen.
ℹ️ Manuel Neuer fällt aus.@Manuel_Neuer hat sich im Champions League-Spiel gegen Leverkusen einen Muskelfaserriss in der rechten Wade zugezogen.
— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) March 6, 2025
Gute Besserung, Manu! Wir wünschen dir eine gute und schnelle Genesung! ❤️🩹
🔗 https://t.co/bLXxGDtFuV#MiaSanMia #FCBayern pic.twitter.com/KDV7nZAA0n
Jonas Urbig Steps In as Bayern’s New No.1
With Neuer unavailable, Bayern will rely on Jonas Urbig as their first-choice goalkeeper.
The German U21 international joined the club from FC Köln in January 2025, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract.
At just 21 years old, Urbig now has the opportunity to prove himself on the big stage.
This season, Bayern has already rotated between multiple goalkeepers due to injuries.
Urbig becomes the fourth shot-stopper to feature for the club after Neuer, Daniel Peretz, and Sven Ulreich.
Joshua Kimmich Reacts to Neuer’s Injury
After the match, Joshua Kimmich offered a light-hearted comment about his teammate’s injury.
“Manu started running and suddenly felt pain. He said he’s getting old,” Kimmich joked.
Although Neuer’s absence is a blow, Bayern remains focused on their upcoming challenges.
With Urbig stepping in, the Bavarians hope to maintain their strong form in both domestic and European competitions.
