News Focus
- Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich sign one-year contract extensions at FC Bayern Munich
- The moves confirm Jonas Urbig as the club’s future first-choice goalkeeper
- Alexander Nübel’s return from his Stuttgart loan is now effectively blocked
- Club captain Neuer is weighing up a comeback to the German national side
- This season will mark Neuer’s 16th campaign with the Bavarian giants
FC Bayern Munich have confirmed that both Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich will remain at the Allianz Arena for another season. The veteran shot-stoppers have signed new one-year agreements that keep them at the Bundesliga champions until the summer of 2026.
The double signing has significant implications for the club’s goalkeeping hierarchy. With young prospect Jonas Urbig already tied to a lengthy contract, the decision to retain both senior keepers effectively ends any hope of Alexander Nübel returning from his loan at VfB Stuttgart.
Club president Herbert Hainer praised Neuer’s contribution to the club’s history. He stated that while Bayern have enjoyed many great goalkeepers, the 40-year-old occupies a unique position among them. Chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen described the World Cup winner as one of the best acquisitions in the club’s entire history.
Sporting director Max Eberl outlined the strategic thinking behind the moves. He indicated that Urbig will receive greater opportunities between the posts, suggesting this could be Neuer’s final campaign before retirement. Eberl explained that Neuer and Ulreich will mentor the younger keeper as he develops into the club’s future number one.
Christopher Freund, another key figure in the boardroom, highlighted the character of the goalkeeping unit. He claimed no other European club possesses such a strong combination of personalities in this position.
The upcoming season will mark Neuer’s 16th year with Bayern since joining from Schalke. The club captain, who has worn the armband since 2017, is approaching his 600th appearance for the side. He admitted he took time considering his future but is delighted to continue. The German international also revealed he is discussing a possible return to the national team setup ahead of the World Cup.
Ulreich, aged 37, arrived from Stuttgart in 2015 and has collected 21 trophies during his decade at the club. Despite his success, he has made only 104 appearances. The deputy keeper expressed his joy at staying, praising the quality of the squad and coaching staff. He remains confident the team can challenge for all major honours next term.