Bayern Munich captain and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has encountered a setback in his return from a calf injury, the German club announced on Saturday.
Neuer, 38, has been sidelined since tearing his calf muscle while celebrating a goal in Bayern’s Champions League last 16 first leg win over Bayer Leverkusen in early March.
Although Neuer had resumed training with the ball in recent days, he reinjured the calf muscle during training over the weekend. Bayern stated that Neuer experienced “a reaction in the calf muscle” and will need to refrain from training “in the coming days.”
This development puts Neuer’s availability in doubt for Bayern’s Bundesliga home clash against St. Pauli on March 29. Additionally, Bayern is set to face Inter Milan in the Champions League quarter-finals over two legs in April.
In Neuer’s absence, Bayern may rely on backup goalkeepers Jonas Urbig, Daniel Peretz, or Sven Ulreich. Urbig, 21, did not participate with Germany’s U21s during the international break due to a foot injury.
Bayern currently holds a six-point lead over second-placed Leverkusen with eight league games remaining this season. As the team pursues domestic and international success, Neuer’s prompt recovery is crucial to their ambitions.
The German goalkeeper’s experience and leadership have been instrumental in Bayern’s achievements, and his absence may impact the team’s performance. Bayern will likely monitor Neuer’s progress closely, hoping for a swift recovery to ensure his participation in upcoming crucial matches.
Bayern Munich’s depth in goalkeeping will be put to the test as they navigate Neuer’s absence. Jonas Urbig, Daniel Peretz, and Sven Ulreich are all capable options, but each has their own limitations. Urbig, despite his youth, has shown promise, but his recent foot injury may raise concerns about his readiness. Peretz, on the other hand, has limited experience at the top level, while Ulreich, although seasoned, has struggled with consistency.
Neuer’s injury setback serves as a reminder of the challenges Bayern Munich faces in their pursuit of domestic and international success. With a packed schedule ahead, including crucial Bundesliga and Champions League matches, the team’s ability to adapt and respond to setbacks will be crucial. Bayern’s coaching staff will need to carefully manage Neuer’s recovery, balancing the need for caution with the urgency of getting their star goalkeeper back on the pitch. As the season enters its critical phase, Bayern’s title ambitions hang in the balance, and Neuer’s prompt recovery is more vital than ever.
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