Between criticism, salary and future: Neuer’s Bayern status is shaky | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer is back in the public eye and the recent discussions about his performance could also have an impact on his future at FC Bayern.

There is no fundamental criticism of Neuer internally at the record champions, but according to Sport BILD , those responsible are keeping an increasingly close eye on his performance. A decision on a contract extension is not a priority – talks on this are planned for next spring at the earliest, probably in March around Neuer’s 40th birthday.

With a rumoured annual salary of up to 20 million euros, the veteran is still one of the club’s top earners. At the same time, Bayern is currently working on reducing salary costs. In the event of an extension, the goalkeeper would probably have to make financial sacrifices. However, if Neuer wants to stay on for another season, the club will hardly put any obstacles in his way.

Despite the long-term plans with Neuer, Bayern have their sights set on the future. According to Sport BILD , Jonas Urbig, currently the number two, will continue to receive appearances and gradually develop further. The aim is to develop the 21-year-old as the captain’s successor.

Criticism of Manuel Neuer grows

photo: IMAGO

Neuer has recently come under increasing criticism as his performances have fluctuated. In the last three games, FC Bayern have conceded seven goals – five of which came from set-pieces. Particularly noticeable: the captain was directly involved several times in the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal.

Neuer was late for an early corner, which former Bayern star Michael Ballack criticized: „He wants to block the player himself, gets out of rhythm and loses his timing.“ The goalkeeper himself saw it differently: „The opponent naturally throws me off balance, that’s clear. Then I also have a different position than I would have liked and then I can’t get to the front like that.“

Neuer was a particular target for the third goal when he ran out of his goal and Gabriel Martinelli put the ball past him. Ballack said: „If he goes for the ball, he has to have it, he knows that himself. He decided to take the risk – and was punished.“ Neuer justified himself with a view to the score: „I knew I was taking a big risk.“ Head of Sport Max Eberl added: „He decided to go for it, and Martinelli apparently still saw him in the corner of his eye.“