Oliver Kahn delivers verdict on goalkeeping debate at Bayern Munich
Oliver Kahn opens up about the goalkeeping situation at Bayern Munich next season.
Bayern Munich started the rebuild process last summer. The defending German champions want to slowly add young world-class players in the squad to compete on all fronts for many years. They bid farewell to a few senior players last summer to make way for young players.
Along with adding young players, Die Roten also want to increase competition for places in the starting XI. Healthy competition will push players to improve and get better with time. Moreover, it will make sure that an optimum level is maintained in team performances.
Rekordmeister decided to add competition in the goalkeeping department in January by reaching a pre-contract agreement with Schalke’s Alexander Nubel. The young German goalkeeper will officially be a Bayern player when the transfer window opens in July.
Nubel’s arrival has raised few eyebrows in Germany as Die Roten already has a top goalkeeper in Manuel Neuer. Speaking to SportBild (via Goal), Oliver Kahn decided to address the goalkeeping situation at the club. Kahn insisted that Nubel will learn a lot from Neuer during his time in Bavaria.
"“In general, as I have shown myself, goalkeepers can, of course, play into old age, but maintaining a high level is a great challenge.”“In Alexander Nubel, we get a highly talented goalkeeper, who has the chance to develop and learn behind Manuel Neuer. Not many have the opportunity to work with the best goalkeeper in the world every day.”"
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Nubel’s arrival has increased speculation surrounding the future of Neuer at the club. The German goalkeeper has already been linked with a move to Juventus. Rekordmeister is eager to extend his contract as his current deal is set to expire in 2021, and they are holding negotiations with him for a new deal.
Neuer reportedly wants a longer contract while Die Roten wants to give him a two-year extension. The club will be hoping that they soon reach a compromise and shut down the rumour mill surrounding Neuer’s future. The club captain is still a top goalkeeper, and he has a lot to offer on and off the pitch.
Nubel’s representatives admitted that Bayern came up with the best proposal, so the 22-year-old shot-stopper is expected to get decent playing time next season. He will be hoping to become the number one option by the time he is 24.
Next. How will Bayern Munich line up in the 2020/21 season?. dark
Right now, the German club needs to make sure that both goalkeepers are happy with playing time next year. Neuer should be playing in the league, while Nubel gets to start in the goal during cup games. The former will need some convincing as he remains hungry to play every game and contribute to the club’s success. It is a good selection headache to have for Bayern, but their approach to handling this situation will be crucial ahead of Nubel’s arrival in July.