Manuel Neuer has spoken openly for the first time about when he may bring his extraordinary playing career to an end. The 40-year-old Bayern Munich goalkeeper and captain acknowledges that the final chapter of his football journey is drawing near.
On Tuesday, Neuer traveled to Bayern Munich’s pre-season training camp in the Tegernsee region, preparing to begin his 21st Bundesliga season. Sixteen of those seasons have been spent with Bayern Munich, while the other five were with Schalke. After returning from his summer break following his participation in the FIFA World Cup, the veteran made some surprising remarks after the team’s first training session.
Asked by Bild whether he would wait until the end of the upcoming season to decide between extending his contract or retiring in the summer of 2027, the 2014 FIFA World Cup winner replied:
“I don’t go into matches telling myself that this is my last game, regardless of whether it’s my final visit to a particular stadium or not. But this time, it seems very likely that I will end my career and retire.”
Named the World’s Best Goalkeeper on five occasions, Neuer extended his contract with Bayern Munich for one more year in May. The decision came after months of careful reflection, during which retirement was a very real possibility.
“At that time, I was probably 85% inclined to retire. But being part of this team, with this coaching staff and this manager, gives me tremendous joy. We always have the opportunity to compete for every trophy and stay at the highest level. That environment and the quality of the squad made up the remaining 15% that convinced me to say to myself: I simply have to continue.”
Speaking about his motivation for the new season, the veteran added:
“I continue to play because of my personal passion and because I know I still have the ability to help the team. I also have the incredible support of my family and friends.”
Everything suggests that this will be the final chapter of Neuer’s remarkable career. He hopes to bring it to a perfect conclusion on June 5, 2027, when the UEFA Champions League Final is scheduled to be played at Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium.
Lifting a third European title, following his Champions League triumphs in 2013 and 2020, would provide the perfect ending to one of football’s most legendary careers.