Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich won’t let his decisive blunder against Real Madrid ruin his otherwise excellent season.
It’s been a rollercoaster of a season for Bayern Munich back-up goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. For the first few weeks after Manuel Neuer broke his foot (again), there were many doubts about whether or not Ulreich was capable of filling in for the Bayern skipper.
However, Neuer’s deputy soon shook off his rust and proved himself more than capable of leading Bayern from the back. Ulreich has stepped up time and time again this season. He’s been so impressive, in fact, that he has a legitimate “player of the season” claim.
However, he recently made one big mistake in a crucial moment that cost his team dearly. Yes, that mistake against Real Madrid. Fortunately, Ulreich’s teammates have his back and have assured him that Bayern’s Champions League exit was a team effort.
In an interview with Bild, the 29-year-old keeper shared his thoughts on the moment. He explained that he was in two minds when the pass was played back. He initially thought Karim Benzema would beat him to the ball, so he prepared for a one-on-one scenario. When the Frenchman pulled off, Ulreich realized he couldn’t touch it with his hands, so he tried to kick it upfield. And when he missed the kick, the ball was too far for him to then reach with his hand. You know what happened next.
When asked about the thoughts that ran through his head after the final whistle, Ulreich replied:
"“It was just a huge disappointment that we were eliminated, that we did not manage to score two more goals. We really wanted to reach the final.”"
Sven further added that he won’t let this one mistake ruin his perception on what has been an otherwise fantastic season.
"“I will not let it break the season. Our season was outstanding, I played a lot of good games, played a strong season at a high level. That was the best season I’ve ever played.”"
The interview covers many other topics, such as his excitement for the upcoming DFB Pokal final and the possibility of him featuring at the World Cup. Most importantly, though, Ulreich assured the interviewer that he won’t let this mistake hang over him. He explained, “Life goes on.”
Sven Ulreich has been sensational for Bayern Munich this season, and it would be a real shame for people to forget the many times he’s been the club’s savior simply because of this mistake.
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Yes, it was a big mess up at a huge moment, but Ulreich nevertheless deserves the respect, admiration and thanks from the Bavarian faithful for stepping up in the absence of Manuel Neuer in one of the craziest seasons in recent memory.