‘I do believe that this can be the last one’: Neuer hints at retirement after Bayern win

Munich: Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has hinted that the 2026-27 season could be the final campaign of his illustrious career, admitting retirement is now a strong possibility.

Neuer made the comments after Bayern defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the German Super Cup. Asked whether it could be his final appearance in the competition, the 40-year-old Bayern captain replied, “Could be, could be.”

When asked whether he could call time on his career at the end of the season, Neuer suggested the possibility was becoming increasingly likely.

“Now is the time to enjoy everything once again. Then I’ll see how the season goes. But basically, I do believe that this can be the last one,” Neuer said as quoted by Goal.com.

The veteran goalkeeper had already indicated during Bayern’s pre-season training camp that he was unlikely to extend his contract beyond its current term, which runs until 2027.

Neuer, however, stressed that he does not want to approach individual matches with the mindset that they could be his last.

“I don’t play the matches to say: This is my last match now. But it does look very much like I’m retiring,” he said.

The former Germany international had previously admitted that he came close to retiring before deciding to continue with Bayern. He credited the current squad, coaching staff and the club’s continued ability to challenge for major honours for influencing that decision.

Neuer is now entering his 21st Bundesliga season and has set his sights on ending his career with another Champions League triumph.

Bayern have already begun planning for the post-Neuer era, with 23-year-old Jonas Urbig viewed as the long-term successor. The club has reportedly agreed on a rotation plan involving the two goalkeepers, allowing Urbig to gradually take on greater responsibility before eventually becoming Bayern’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Neuer joined Bayern in 2011 and has since established himself as one of the most decorated goalkeepers in football history, winning multiple Bundesliga titles and Champions League honours with the German giants.

IANS