Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has indicated he is likely to retire at the end of the current season. The 40-year-old made the announcement during a media session ahead of Bayern’s pre-season preparations, stating, “It looks strongly like I will stop.”
Neuer is entering his 21st season as a professional footballer. Retirement speculation surrounded the veteran shot-stopper last year, but he ultimately signed a one-year contract extension with Bayern and surprisingly returned to the German national team for the 2026 World Cup. Despite this, Neuer suggests this upcoming season will be tinged with a sense of finality. “I don’t play the games to say this is my last game,” he said. “Regardless of whether I may have been in one or another stadium for the last time, we’ll see.”
He explained his decision to continue playing, despite considering retirement, stemmed from his enjoyment of the current team environment. “It’s just fun,” Neuer stated. “I could have stopped in 85 percent of cases, but with this team, with the staff and coaching team, it’s just fun.” The opportunity to add to his already impressive trophy cabinet also played a role. “We always have the opportunity to play for all the titles. We are fully up to date with the team. And that’s why this team, the squad and the structure we have at the club are among the 15 percent where I said: I definitely have to continue.”
Neuer anticipates a collaborative approach with Jonas Urbig, who is widely considered his heir apparent. He believes the dynamic will mirror last season’s, with mutual support within the goalkeeping team, including Sven Ulreich and other young keepers. “It’s important that we help each other, that we push each other, that we can always give the best for the team on the goalkeeper position. And that’s how it will run this season too.”
Throughout his distinguished career, Neuer has established himself as one of Germany’s most decorated footballers. He has won the Champions League twice, alongside 13 Bundesliga titles, seven DFB-Pokal trophies, and two each of the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup titles. His departure will mark the end of an era for both Bayern Munich and German football.
