“This is the first I’ve heard of it”: Urbig reacts to Neuer’s plans to retire | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer is heading into his final season as a professional. The FC Bayern captain recently hinted that he intends to end his career after the 2026–27 season. His designated successor, Jonas Urbig, is deliberately avoiding the topic, however.

During FC Bayern’s tour of Asia, Urbig was asked about Neuer’s comments. The 22-year-old seemed surprised: “I had no idea he said that. This is the first time I’ve heard it.”

Instead of thinking about the future, the young goalkeeper is focusing on the day-to-day collaboration within the goalkeeping team.

“Generally speaking, the rapport with Manu is good—as well as with Sven and the entire goalkeeping team. His possible retirement is a separate issue, and that’s something that concerns Manu. We’re just glad that we have such a good vibe and work so well together in our goalkeeping team,” Urbig explained.

Urbig takes it one game at a time

According to Sport BILD, Urbig is expected to see significantly more playing time next season. Bayern plans to gradually prepare the U21 national team goalkeeper for his role as the future number one. The goalkeeper could also see action in important matches to gain experience under intense pressure early on.

Urbig, however, doesn’t want to hear anything about a competitive situation.

“Of course, I’m always happy when the coach lets me play. But the team knows that, regardless of which goalkeeper is in net, they can count on him. We saw that last year when Manu played, when Sven played, or when I played. I’ll be happy if things go just as well as they did last season. I’m just taking it one game at a time,” emphasized the Bayern goalkeeper.

Neuer Eyes New Role at FC Bayern

Photo: IMAGO

These statements underscore the clear division of roles at the record-holding champions. Manuel Neuer will remain the number one goalkeeper in what is likely his final season, while Urbig is to be gently introduced to his future role.

At the same time, plans are already underway for the period after Neuer’s career. According to information from Sport BILD, both sides can envision continuing to work together after Neuer retires. Reportedly, CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen has already signaled to the 2014 World Cup champion that the doors at FC Bayern will remain open to him in the future—perhaps in an advisory role or as a brand ambassador.

Until then, however, the focus remains on the current season. While Neuer aims to lead FC Bayern to more titles if possible, Urbig is gaining further experience step by step—with the clear goal of permanently guarding Bayern’s goal starting in 2027.