Bayern Munich: Manuel Neuer eyeing return to German squad in Spring
Manuel Neuer has made a good return to action for Bayern Munich after spending ten months on the sidelines due to a leg injury. The German goalkeeper made his return to the squad at the end of October against SV Darmstadt. Thomas Tuchel took a cautious approach in terms of bringing him back to the team since he was returning from a serious injury.
Neuer’s performances have been fairly decent in the five games he has played this season. He has made some decent saves and kept two clean sheets in five games. The German international has looked a little shaky while playing out from the back, but he is expected to get better with more game time under his belt.
After a successful return to action for Bayern, Neuer had made a case to be involved in the German squad for November’s international break. However, Julian Nagelsmann decided to give Neuer more time to add more minutes under his belt before returning to Germany’s squad.
Neuer is also calm about his place in the German squad. While talking to the media this week (via iMiaSanMia), Manuel Neuer revealed that he is eyeing a return to the German squad in the spring. The experienced goalkeeper also revealed that there is very good communication with Nagelsmann, which gives clarity about his chances to be in the squad.
"“For medical reasons it makes no sense to be there now. I’ll do my best to come back and be there in spring. That’s my big goal. I will work hard for that. My contact with Julian Nagelsmann is very good. We are constantly in communication. He’s also very happy that things started so well for me. And I’m happy to have the chance to play another tournament.”"
It is good to see that Neuer and Nagelsmann have somewhat sorted their differences. The German goalkeeper was reportedly unhappy with Nagelsmann when Bayern had sacked Toni Tapalovic earlier this year. It is crucial for Germany to have Nagelsmann and Neuer on the same page to do well in next summer’s Euros on home soil.
One thing is certain- Neuer will not be leading Germany in Euros. Nagelsmann is set to stick with Ilkay Gundogan as the captain of the squad. The former Manchester City midfielder was appointed new captain of Germany by Hansi Flick earlier this season.
Bayern will hope that Neuer continues to get consistent game time in the next few months to regain his best form. He has a big role to play on and off the pitch if Die Roten wants to achieve success in the Bundesliga and Champions League.
dark. Next. Freund slowly making mark at Bayern Munich
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
The Bavarian club will look to open contract talks with Neuer later this season. The German goalkeeper’s contract at the club is set to expire in the summer. Bayern need to assess their long-term options in the goalkeeping department since Neuer is in the twilight of his career.