How will Bayern Munich line up in the 2020/21 season?
By Kartik Sahni
Goalkeeper
Manuel Neuer
Despite the recent rumours linking Manuel Neuer with Chelsea, we can expect the four-time IFFHS World’s Best Goalkeeper to lead Bayern as their captain. Neuer arrived in the summer of 2011 from Schalke and has had a major impact on Bayern’s game. His arrival coincides with Bayern’s dominance in the Bundesliga for the last seven years.
The 33-year old still has what it takes to be the best in the world. His ability to operate as a sweeper-keeper allows Bayern to play effectively with a high line. When defending between the sticks, Neuer is Bayern’s very own Spiderman. Moreover, his technical ability with the ball allows him to operate as an outfield player and find his teammates through opposition’s pressure. No wonder, Manuel Neuer was a key component of Bayern’s backbone in the past decade.
His contract will end in June 2021, so Bayern must find a way to keep him in the squad. Neuer who seemed to have lost his grip earlier has shown tremendous improvement under Hansi Flick’s tutelage. The German shot-stopper has kept eight clean sheets in Bayern’s last 15 league outings. As per Bleacher Report, Neuer has Flick’s backing and should be a regular starter in the next season.
"“Everyone knows what I think of Manuel. He is by far the best goalkeeper in the world, I have no doubts about that. ” “Therefore, there is no alternative for me. Manuel leads the team; it gives him the necessary security. We have a clear hierarchy with the goalkeepers. It will be the same next year.”"
Alexander Nubel, Bayern’s latest recruit from Schalke, should be prepared to operate as Neuer’s understudy at least until 2021.