Neuer Likely Out for 2024, Confirms Bayern Boss Kompany
Bayern Munich’s star goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, is unlikely to play again in 2024, according to head coach Vincent Kompany. Speaking on Monday ahead of an important clash with Shakhtar Donetsk, Kompany confirmed that Neuer had suffered a broken rib, a setback that will sideline him for the remainder of the year.
Kompany emphasized the importance of Neuer’s recovery, stating, “What’s important is that it heals now. Hopefully, from the start of January, we’ll have Manu back, but for now, it’s too early.” Neuer’s injury was the result of a collision with Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, which also saw Neuer receive a red card—the first red card of his 866-game career.
This injury is a significant blow for Bayern Munich, who are already grappling with a series of injuries across their first-team squad. Key players like Harry Kane, Kingsley Coman, Alphonso Davies, Joao Palhinha, Serge Gnabry, Josip Stanisic, Hiroki Ito, and Mathys Tel are all sidelined. Additionally, back-up goalkeeper Sven Ulreich is unavailable due to personal reasons.
With Neuer out, Bayern’s third-choice goalkeeper, Daniel Peretz, will take the role between the posts. Peretz made his debut during the German Cup match against Leverkusen and will now have to step up as Bayern aims to secure a win against Shakhtar Donetsk. The match, technically an ‘away’ fixture for Bayern, is taking place in Gelsenkirchen—Shakhtar’s temporary European base due to ongoing displacement caused by the war in Ukraine.
Bayern Munich, six-time Champions League winners, are in a critical position in the Champions League, sitting in 13th place after five matches. A crucial win against Shakhtar would help Bayern secure a spot in the top eight, ensuring they avoid an extra playoff round.
Kompany’s commitment to overcoming these challenges shows his determination to maintain Bayern’s competitive edge, focusing on quick recoveries and making adjustments to safeguard their standing in both domestic and European competitions.
Neuer Likely Out for 2024, Confirms Bayern Boss Kompany
