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Sepp Maier Suggests Manuel Neuer Should Retire After Injury Setback at Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich legend Sepp Maier has advised the club’s veteran goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, now 40 years old, to consider retiring after the 2026-27 season. This recommendation comes after Neuer suffered a partial tendon tear in his right foot during Bayern’s 2-1 win over Mainz on November 7.

Injury Impact and Career Considerations

Neuer’s recent injury adds to a string of fitness issues that have interrupted his playing time this season. So far, he has missed several matches, prompting young backup Jonas Urbig, 23, to step in for eight appearances. Maier, a former German international goalkeeper, believes Neuer has accomplished everything possible in football and no longer needs to prove himself.

"Call it a day, Manu! You have given football an incredible amount, you have won everything and you no longer have anything to prove to anyone," said Maier when asked what advice he would give Neuer about playing beyond next summer.

He praised Neuer's revolutionary impact on goalkeeping but acknowledged that age and physical wear are catching up even with a player of Neuer’s stature. Maier said the body eventually fails to keep pace with demands, and Neuer cannot escape that reality.

The Goalkeeping Future at Bayern

With Urbig seen as Bayern’s future goalkeeper, Maier stressed the need for the club to establish a clear hierarchy soon. He noted that while Neuer deserves to play if fit and performing well, the ongoing uncertainty benefits neither goalkeeper.

"Manuel is 40 years old and Jonas Urbig is the future of Bayern Munich. But you cannot simply write Manuel off either. If he is fit and performing well, he should be allowed to play. However, Bayern need to make a clear decision sooner rather than later. This constant back-and-forth does neither goalkeeper any favours."

Maier described Neuer as still one of the best when fully healthy, highlighting his experience, presence, and game understanding. Yet, the main question remains how often Neuer can maintain full fitness. Meanwhile, Urbig has shown promising performances.

Expected Recovery and Future Talks

Neuer’s injury is expected to sideline him for six to eight weeks, ruling him out for the remainder of 2026. His return is anticipated after the Bundesliga winter break in January 2027, when discussions about his career path are likely to intensify. Until then, Urbig will continue gaining valuable experience as Bayern’s primary goalkeeper.

Related Information

  • Manuel Neuer: Veteran goalkeeper and Bayern captain, currently sidelined by injury.
  • Sepp Maier: Former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper, advising Neuer on retirement.
  • Bayern Munich: Club dealing with goalkeeper transition amid Neuer's injury.
  • Bundesliga: German top-flight league where Bayern competes.
  • Next Match: Bayern Munich vs. FC Köln on 20 Nov 2026, 21:30 kickoff.

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