Manuel expresses no interest in the departure ceremony at FC Bayern for him.
Neuer's FC Bayern Future Secure After DFB Departure: New Contract Possible
Germany's all-time top goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, has no intentions of hanging up his gloves at FC Bayern Munich following his departure from the German national team. A new contract even seems plausible for the 38-year-old. This news might not sit well with Alexander Nübel, currently on loan at VfB Stuttgart.
Neuer's tenure with Bayern Munich, the reigning German champions, concludes in the summer of 2025. However, he made it clear that he isn't entering the new season with the notion of bidding a fond farewell afterwards, "I'm not going into the campaign with the intention of saying goodbye at the end of it," he told "Kicker".
The 38-year-old captain reasons that if they successfully navigate the season with the new coaching staff and a fresh wave of energy, it translates to enjoyment for him as well. "And if the fun is there, then that definitely continues beyond the upcoming summer," Neuer added about the prospect of extending his career further. He's open to any opportunities in football, stating, "you never know what might happen."
"No Pressure to Negotiate Contract Extension"
Neuer maintains a close dialogue with coach Vincent Kompany, sporting director Christoph Freund, and sporting director Max Eberl. "I have regular interactions with the coach, with Christoph and Max," he mentioned. He's content with their mutual satisfaction and doesn't feel the need to discuss future arrangements just yet. "But the time for such discussions is still far off. But it will come," he concluded.
The possibility of FC Bayern's loaned goalkeeper Alex Nübel determining his future is not something Neuer entertains. "I don't think the continuation of my career depends on Alex Nübel," he said, emphasizing the independence of their careers. Bayern had extended Nübel's contract until 2029.
Neuer enjoys a strong relationship with Nübel, mentioning, "I have a good relationship with Alex and was happy to see him in the national team. We had a great time training together." There's no animosity between them, he reaffirmed. Nübel was among the provisional German Euro squad in the training camp, but he was not part of the tournament, with Neuer still the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.
"Anticipation for Champions League Final in 2025"
Neuer, who captained Germany for 15 years and earned 124 international caps, doesn't dismiss the idea of a return to the DFB team, similar to Toni Kroos before the Euro. "You should never rule out something like that, and I won't either... It's a deliberate and conscious decision for me," he stated about his DFB exit. "It wasn't easy, but I feel good about it as it's my personal decision. Of course, there's a hint of sadness, but also relief."
He views the international breaks as an opportunity to recuperate and mentally prepare for a successful Bundesliga campaign. In a notable development, Neuer expressed his excitement about the possibility of the Champions League final taking place in Munich in the summer of 2025. "Because something significant is on the horizon: the Champions League final 'at home'. Thomas Müller and I are the only ones who were there in 2012 against Chelsea. We know what this final means to the city, the fans, and us players. We must do everything to reach that stage again," he concluded.
Neuer's current contract with FC Bayern Munich, the football league champions, expires in the summer of 2025. However, he is eager to continue playing beyond this season if the team and the new coaching staff provide him with enjoyment.
Despite Bayern extending Alex Nübel's contract until 2029, Neuer does not see Nübel's career as determining his own future in the football league.
