Manuel Neuer, the veteran goalkeeper and captain for Bayern Munich, indicated that the current season may mark the end of his career. Speaking after Bayern's 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup, Neuer said, "Now it's time to enjoy this season with the team, and then we'll see. But yes, it's possible it will be the last."
Bayern Munich secured the Supercup title with goals from Nathaniel Brown and Michael Olise. When pressed by SAT.1 about whether this would be his final Super Cup interview, the 40-year-old said, "Now is the time to enjoy everything once again. Then I'll see how the season goes. But basically, I do believe that this could be the last one."
Neuer is embarking on his 21st Bundesliga season. His current contract with Bayern extends through 2027, but his recent comments suggest he may not see it through.
These public remarks follow earlier hints from Neuer during training camp at Tegernsee, when he suggested he would not seek another contract extension. He said, "I don't play the games to say: this is my last game now — regardless of whether I may have been in one stadium or another for the last time. But it certainly looks very much like I'll stop."
Neuer had considered retirement seriously in May before signing his most recent extension. He cited the enjoyment of playing with the current team, staff and coaching structure. He explained he would "perhaps have stopped in 85 percent of cases," but the opportunity to compete for all titles made him decide to "definitely have to carry on."
For this season, Neuer has a clear objective: to conclude his career by winning the Champions League title.
Bayern Munich has established a succession plan. Jonas Urbig, a 23-year-old former Cologne player, is positioned as Neuer's successor. The two goalkeepers will alternate during the season, allowing Urbig to gain experience and prepare to become the club's primary goalkee.
