Effenberg makes up his mind: Manuel Neuer is quitting Bayern | OneFootball

The discussion surrounding Manuel Neuer’s future continues to gather pace and now former Bayern captain Stefan Effenberg, of all people, is adding fuel to the fire. The TV pundit is predicting that the Neuer era in Munich will soon come to an end. The 39-year-old himself remains vague, speaking of physical and mental factors. But according to Effenberg, his career path could already be set – and it could possibly lead across the Atlantic

The past few weeks have further fuelled speculation surrounding Manuel Neuer. The giant goalkeeper, the face between Munich’s posts for over a decade, has recently experienced fluctuations in performance and avoided making clear statements about his future. He repeatedly emphasized that he „has to see what it looks like in March“ and that both physical and mental factors play a role

This reticence in particular is being closely observed in expert circles, with many suggesting that Neuer has not yet made a final decision himself – or is already mentally considering leaving

Effenberg: „It will probably be over at Bayern“

In „Doppelpass“ on SPORT1, Stefan Effenberg openly explained his view of things – and it is surprisingly clear. „It will probably be over at Bayern Munich,“ said the FCB legend without beating around the bush

But Effenberg goes even further: he believes that Neuer definitely wants to continue playing – just not with the German record champions. Instead, he sees an option that now seems increasingly realistic: a move to the MLS

„If he’s still having fun – and I think he is – he’ll definitely add another year. Maybe with Thomas Müller in Vancouver with the Whitecaps.“

The connection to Müller is a decisive factor for Effenberg: „They get on very well, are in contact and Thomas can make it a bit more palatable for him.“

A move to North America would certainly have its appeal: less media pressure, a more relaxed playing rhythm and a league that is attracting more and more international stars. After years in the spotlight, Neuer could write the final chapter of his career there – together with his long-time companion Thomas Müller

For Effenberg, there is no question that Neuer would have enough offers. His name has global appeal, and for many clubs he would be an asset both in sporting and marketing terms

Bayern prepares itself – Urbig moves into focus

At FC Bayern, they are taking note of the situation calmly but attentively. Those responsible are monitoring the goalkeeper market and giving Jonas Urbig regular playing time to assess his development. Internally, they are prepared – even if Neuer remains the clear number one for as long as he is at the club

Vincent Kompany regularly emphasizes that Neuer is an important contact, but at the same time it is clear that Bayern must find a long-term solution, and this could be needed sooner than was thought just a few months ago.