Bayern’s plan revealed! Urbig is set to succeed Neuer as early as this season | OneFootball

FC Bayern has apparently developed a clear roadmap for the future in goal. Jonas Urbig is set to be groomed specifically for the role of Manuel Neuer’s successor as early as next season. The longtime captain apparently supports this plan wholeheartedly—and has already announced internally that this will be his final season as a professional.

By extending Manuel Neuer’s contract in May, club officials not only ensured planning stability for the current season but, according to Sport BILD, also laid the groundwork for a generational transition between the posts.

According to the report, Jonas Urbig is set to take on significantly more responsibility in the 2026–27 season than he has so far. The 22-year-old will not only be called upon when Neuer is injured or being rested, but will also be given the opportunity to gain playing experience in key matches.

The idea behind this is clear: Urbig is to get used to the pressure that comes with being FC Bayern’s future number one at an early stage. Starting with the 2027–28 season, the former Cologne player is then set to officially succeed Neuer.

The decision is said to have been made jointly by Jan-Christian Dreesen, Max Eberl, Christoph Freund, and the goalkeeper himself—even before Neuer’s contract extension. Neuer reportedly has no objections to this plan and wants to actively support his successor’s development. Accordingly, the 40-year-old is even willing to deliberately sit out certain matches this season to give Urbig more playing time at the highest level.

Neuer dreams of the perfect farewell

Photo: IMAGO

For Neuer himself, the upcoming season is set to be the last of his extraordinary career. According to information from Sport BILD, the 2014 World Cup champion plans to end his career in the summer of 2027.

Sources close to him also say that the veteran considered last season one of the best of his career. He also has no regrets about his return to the German national team. Neuer is said to be particularly motivated by the prospect of crowning his career with another Champions League triumph.

Discussions have reportedly already taken place regarding the time after he retires. According to the report, CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen has signaled to the longtime Bayern captain that the club’s doors will remain open to him even after his playing career ends and that a future role with the record-holding champions is a possibility.