Bayern’s future is uncertain: Will Manuel Neuer move to the MLS? | OneFootball

It would be a real bombshell in the soccer world: Manuel Neuer and the North American MLS – suddenly this scenario is no longer a completely far-fetched idea, triggered by a statement from Stefan Effenberg, who openly speculated on SPORT1 Doppelpass whether the 39-year-old could move to the USA together with Thomas Müller

Müller famously left Munich last summer and surprisingly signed for the Vancouver Whitecaps. The 36-year-old is experiencing a second spring in Canada, where he is in the play-off final and will face Inter Miami and Lionel Messi. A picture-book chapter for the ex-Bayern star – and, according to Effenberg, a possible role model for Neuer

„Whether that’s at Bayern or in the MLS“

Effenberg deliberately formulated his thoughts cautiously but clearly: Neuer will „certainly play at a high level for another year or two – whether that’s at Bayern or perhaps even with Thomas Müller“

There are currently no concrete indications of MLS interest, but Neuer’s contract with the record champions expires on 30 June 2026. And from early summer at the latest, Munich will have to think about how FCB intends to arrange the long-term succession of its captain – especially as Jonas Urbig is being built up in a targeted manner

Bayern bosses have recently emphasized several times that they will talk to Neuer about his future „in the new year“. The mood is relaxed, both sides are taking their time. No hectic, no pressure. For FCB, another season with Neuer would be absolutely conceivable – but probably only with a reduced role or a salary model that corresponds to the new austerity course

photo: IMAGO

The 2024 World Cup winner spoke more clearly about his feelings on the matter for the first time after the 3-1 win against St. Pauli. He links his future to his fitness in the second half of the season: „The decisive factor will be how I feel in the second half of the season. Towards March, during the national team break, I’ll have to think about what happens next.“

This statement deliberately leaves everything open: contract extension, end of career, abroad – it all depends on how his body copes with the strain over the winter and spring

MLS? theoretically possible – practically questionable

There is no question that Müller is happy in Canada, or that the MLS is now financially strong, glamorous and attractive for European icons. It cannot be completely ruled out that Neuer – in the event of a departure – could still imagine a modern adventure

But: a change seems unlikely at the moment. Neuer enjoys his role in Munich, enjoys the environment, enjoys the appreciation. And: despite minor mistakes, he still seems stable and competitive

For the time being, Effenberg’s brainwave remains just that – speculation, nothing more. Nevertheless, Neuer’s future is more open than it has been for years.