Bayern Munich: Hansi Flick comments on goalkeeping situation
Hansi Flick gives his verdict on the ongoing speculation surrounding the goalkeeping situation at Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich witnessed major changes to the first-team squad last summer. Few veteran players were allowed to leave the club after enjoying success in Bavaria for more than a decade. These departures added more responsibility to young players of the squad.
Serge Gnabry has done well in the absence of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery, while Benjamin Pavard has been consistent after Mats Hummels‘ departure to Borussia Dortmund. Die Roten decided to improve the goalkeeping department in the same way as they did with attack and defense.
Alexander Nubel reached a pre-contract agreement with Rekordmeister in January. The 22-year-old goalkeeper will join the club in summer when his contract expires with Schalke. Nubel’s potential arrival has raised many questions, including some raising doubts about Manuel Neuer‘s future at the club.
Hansi Flick has finally decided to address the growing debate about the goalkeeping department at the club. Speaking to Kicker (via AS), Flick made it clear that Neuer will continue to be number one choice next season, but the club is eager to develop Nubel in a top-class goalkeeper.
"“Manuel Neuer is clearly our number 1, nothing will change in the coming season. Alexander Nübel knows that.”“Alexander Nübel will have the same trust and the same appreciation as all other goalkeepers and players in our team. We want to develop him further, but it is also clear that performance is what counts at Bayern. And Sven Ulreich is doing really well at the moment.”"
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The club released a statement on Thursday to make it clear that decision-makers at the club are completely satisfied with the acquisition of Nubel. Die Roten will be finding themselves in a similar position next season whenever Nubel gets an opportunity to play ahead of Neuer.
Bayern is currently negotiating a new contract with Neuer. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is confident that both parties will eventually find a breakthrough in negotiations. The German goalkeeper is likely to be handed a two-year extension, similar to the one Thomas Muller signed earlier this month.
Since Nubel’s signature, Neuer has been linked with various top clubs such as Juventus and Chelsea. Flick’s comments will give Neuer assurances about his role next season. The German international will be 35 next season, but he remains hungry to taste success with club and country.
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From the club’s perspective, they will be hoping that Neuer extends his stay at the club. He will be a perfect mentor for Nubel. For the next couple of seasons, Neuer can remain the first-choice option, and then, Nubel can take over. Flick will have a good selection headache next season, as Nubel is also a very good goalkeeper. The German manager will have to manage both players properly and keep them satisfied by giving adequate playing time.