Alexander Nübel will return to FC Bayern Munich after a three-year loan spell at VfB Stuttgart, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper made 129 appearances for Stuttgart across all competitions, becoming a key figure in their recent resurgence. Bayern are expected to sell Nübel this summer, seeking to recoup some of the investment made when he initially joined the club.
Stuttgart’s board member for sport, Fabian Wohlgemuth, praised Nübel’s contribution, stating that he “set standards…both on and off the pitch” and that the club’s recent success, including qualification for European football for three consecutive seasons, was in part due to his performances. Wohlgemuth also expressed the club’s gratitude for Nübel’s commitment and wished him well for the future.
Nübel himself reflected positively on his time in Stuttgart, describing it as “a sensational time in every respect.” He highlighted the support from the team and fans, as well as the on-field achievements, including a DFB-Pokal victory and qualification for the Champions League and Europa League. He stated that he and his family felt “right at home” during their three years in the city.
Nübel initially joined Bayern Munich in 2020 from Schalke 04, but struggled to displace Manuel Neuer as the first-choice goalkeeper. The loan to Stuttgart provided him with regular playing time and an opportunity to develop his game. He quickly established himself as a reliable presence between the posts, helping Stuttgart to consistently improve their league position and challenge for silverware.
With Neuer still the established number one at Bayern, and Yann Sommer also on the books, Nübel’s future at the Allianz Arena appears limited. Several clubs across Europe are expected to register their interest in signing the German international this summer, offering him the chance to secure a permanent move and continue his development as a top-level goalkeeper. His departure from Stuttgart leaves a void that the club will need to fill ahead of next season.
