Bayern Munich's legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has committed his future to the club by signing a one-year contract extension that will keep him at the Allianz Arena until 2026, taking him beyond his 40th birthday.
The 38-year-old shot-stopper, who has been an integral part of Bayern's dominance since joining from Schalke in 2011, has amassed an impressive collection of silverware, including 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles from 2012 to 2023 and two Champions League trophies in 2013 and 2020.
Despite speculation about his potential retirement following his decision to step away from international duty after Euro 2024, where he earned 124 caps as Germany's most-capped goalkeeper, Neuer has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to continuing his illustrious career at the club level.
"I really enjoy football and want to continue to be a player for FC Bayern," Neuer told the club's official website, expressing his enthusiasm for the extension. "I'm still hungry and looking forward to another year at this special club. We've always had good discussions, which is a nice feeling. It feels good, we still have many common goals."
The veteran keeper's impact on Bayern Munich has been profound, with 547 appearances for the Bavarian giants following his 203 matches for Schalke. Max Eberl, Bayern's board member for sport, praised Neuer's legacy, stating, "When you talk about goalkeeping in our time, you talk about Manuel Neuer, and that's true worldwide." Eberl further emphasized Neuer's significance, describing him as "the best goalkeeper of his generation and already an icon of FC Bayern," adding that he is "an absolute role model – on and off the pitch."
The contract extension reflects both the club's confidence in Neuer's enduring abilities and his own determination to continue performing at the highest level, ensuring that the uniquely successful relationship between Bayern Munich and their captain will continue for at least another season.
