After Kahn’s criticism: Does Manuel Neuer need more time to rest? | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer remains one of the key figures at FC Bayern. But after a blunder against Union Berlin, there is now debate about his workload—and how it could be adjusted in the future.

An unfortunate goal conceded, a clear reaction, and advice from the very top: the discussion about Manuel Neuer has picked up speed after the 2-2 draw in Berlin. The focus is not just on the mistake itself, but also on the question of whether the 39-year-old should continue to play regularly.

Former goalkeeper Oliver Kahn addressed the situation during a TV talk on WELT TV and clearly advocated for more recovery phases. “That’s completely normal. It doesn’t matter whether you’re world-class or not. A moment like that just happens,” said Kahn, referring to the previous strain from the Champions League match against Paris.

Kahn called for more foresight in handling the experienced keeper: “A game like the one at Union would have been the perfect time for some regeneration. Then you just let Urbig play.” It was also clear that the former national goalkeeper was speaking from personal experience: “I actually did that quite often and would say that I needed a recovery break for the next match.”

In fact, Neuer has not taken a real break so far this season—the three games he missed were for other reasons. He was suspended for two cup rounds and was rested once so Jonas Urbig could get some playing time. There has not yet been a deliberate break for recovery.

These games could belong to Urbig

Photo: IMAGO

BILD names two specific Bundesliga matches where an appearance by Urbig seems realistic: the home game against FC St. Pauli on November 29—a match against the offensively harmless bottom team—as well as the duel with Mainz on December 14. Both dates are strategically well placed to rest Neuer ahead of cup and Champions League fixtures.

Neuer himself reacted self-critically after the mistake against Union: “The first goal, I also played a part in that. The view wasn’t perfect for me and the distance wasn’t perfect either. But I made the wrong decision.”

While the Bundesliga occasionally offers rotation potential, there is no debate for the top matches. According to BILD, Neuer is determined to be in goal for the Champions League clashes against Arsenal (Nov 26) and Sporting (Dec 9). His appearance in the cup round of 16 against Union on December 3 is also considered certain.

Whether there will actually be targeted breaks ultimately depends on the coaching staff and also on Manuel Neuer’s own attitude. For Oliver Kahn, it’s clear: “It’s different when you’re 25 or 35, 38, or 40. Recovery just takes longer.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.