„In absolute top form!“: Eberl has no sympathy for Neuer’s criticism | OneFootball

Criticism of Manuel Neuer has picked up speed again recently. Now Max Eberl, a Bayern manager, has spoken out clearly – and is backing the captain.

Two goals conceded against Arsenal were enough to spark a renewed discussion about Manuel Neuer’s performance. However, the match was not the only reason: minor slip-ups and uncertainties had already caused media criticism. For Max Eberl, this debate is exaggerated. In the run-up to the cup match at Union Berlin, the FC Bayern sports director said clearly on ZDF when asked whether he could understand the criticism: „No.“

When asked by presenter Jochen Breyer whether he thought Neuer was currently „in absolute top form“, Eberl made his assessment clear: „Manu has been a great support for us this season. In the twenty games we have played now, he has been a great support for us.“

The 52-year-old then added: „Every player has a game where he makes a bad pass or something doesn’t go the way you want it to. But basically, Manu’s season has been very, very good so far.“

Hoeneß: „I find it impossible…“

photo: IMAGO

Honorary President Uli Hoeneß has also been critical of the way Neuer has been treated. During the public debate about the 39-year-old, Hoeneß clearly sided with the goalkeeper: „I find it impossible how everyone is now attacking him. Manuel is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world – and that will remain the case.“

Neuer himself had also commented on his slip-up after the Champions League evening against Arsenal. The Bayern captain emphasized: „I knew that I was taking a big risk […] When you’re behind, you have to take more risks.“ As usual, the veteran avoided using the word „mistake“. Instead, he focused on the quality of the opponent and explained that he had to act accordingly when conceding the third goal due to the speed of Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli compared to Joshua Kimmich.

Despite the backing of Eberl and Hoeneß, the discussions surrounding Neuer’s role are unlikely to die down for the time being, but the opinion within the club seems clear: Bayern do not want to do without their goalkeeper.