Official | Manuel Neuer to miss Bayern Munich’s Champions League tie against Atalanta

Bayern Munich have confirmed that keeper Manuel Neuer will miss out on the coming Champions League encounter against Atalanta Bergamo. The German footballing legend found himself unable to contest the second half of yesterday evening’s Bundesliga encounter against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Today, Neuer’s club confirmed that the 39-year-old had suffered a minor muscle tear in his calf.

While it remains uncertain precisely how long Neuer will be out, it is quite certain that FCB back-up keeper Jonas Urbig will start between the sticks in Bergamo on Tuesday. Bayern may be compelled to rely upon their designated keeper-of-the-future more often due to Neuer’s recurrent injuries. The latest set-back serves as Neuer’s third muscle tear injury in less than three months.

Whilst filling in for Neuer last spring , Urbig started in the Champions League on four occasions. The 22-year-old kept a clean sheet against Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen in both legs of Bayern’s Round-of-16 encounter against die Werkself . Unfortunately, against Serie A outfit Inter Milan, Urbig left much to be desired.

Neuer’s persistent injury problems may affect Bayern’s desire to extend his expiring contract. The 124-times-capped German international has been signing one year contract extensions since the 2022/23 campaign. Neuer’s age (he will turn 40 at the end of the month) prevents him from keeping consistently fit.

GGFN | Peter Weis