The win against Borussia Dortmund didn’t see Manuel Neuer make several saves. He couldn’t have done much about Julian Brandt’s goal, but Neuer contributed well in possession when Bayern Munich were dominating possession.
Neuer was disappointed not to keep a clean sheet, but he remains clear at the top of the list for most clean sheets this season. The German goalkeeper has four clean sheets in seven games. His performances have been promising, looking close to his best with the ball and the shot-stopping.
After having a rough spell during Hinrunde last season, Neuer has bounced back well. Bayern extended his contract by a year. The 38-year-old has built on the contract extension by delivering consistent performances this campaign.
According to Bild, Bayern are now leaning towards another one-year extension for Neuer. The initial thought amongst the club hierarchy was that this was likely to be Neuer’s final year at the club. Several senior staff at the club believe that a new deal for Neuer looks more like a matter of when than if.
Neuer set a new record with Bayern's win against Borussia Dortmund. The veteran German goalkeeper now has the most wins in the Bundesliga- 363, going past his compatriot Thomas Müller.
Bayern need to start planning life beyond Manuel Neuer
Even though Neuer is not showing any signs of a steep decline, Bayern have to start planning for life beyond him. The Bavarian club should look to manage his minutes from next season to give Jonas Urbig crucial gametime at the top level.
It will be great to have Neuer in the squad during the goalkeeping transition instead of throwing Urbig to become number one when Neuer hangs up his boots.
Die Roten also have a decision to make regarding the futures of Alexander Nubel and Daniel Peretz. Both players will return to Munich from their loan spells at the end of next season. In Peretz’s case, he could return in January and look for a new loan move since he is not playing regularly at Hamburg. Meanwhile, Nubel will be returning after a successful three year loan spell at VfB Stuttgart.
For the time being, Bayern Munich and the Bavarian faithful will be pleased to see Neuer performing well at the top level. They will hope Neuer continues to make a big impact as the season progresses and help the club to win as many trophies possible.