As reported via Bild, Bayern Munich shot stopper Manuel Neuer is set to return to squad training by the end of next week.
As previously understood, there were concerns that a return date for the 37-year-old would be pushed back even further after suffering another setback. However, Bayern’s sporting director Christoph Freund would mention to ZDF that Neuer is close to a full return:
“Not exactly yet, but it’s not far away, I think it could only be a matter of days. Of course you’re a little more careful because he’s been out for a long time now, so load control is important. But I hope in the next few days, in the next week it will be positive and he will be with the team.”
For Bayern, ensuring that their club captain returns fully fit could certainly offer the side a positive boost after an underwhelming start to the season. Head coach Thomas Tuchel would explain how Neuer is hoping to be involved with the first team again as quickly as possible to add further leadership to the Bayern backline:
“He is still very positive. Because he also believes that once he is in team training, it will be very, very soon that he will come back and have what he needs for competition. I believe him too. He knows himself better than I know him!”
While Neuer’s return will be significant for the dressing room, in his absence Sven Ulreich and Daniel Peretz have both proven to be sufficient understudies. Nevertheless, with a return looming, Bayern can finally look towards some positive news.
GGFN | Will Shopland
