Manuel Neuer expected to be sidelined for six weeks

Manuel Neuer is expected to miss at least six weeks after suffering another significant foot injury during Bayern Munich’s 2-1 Bundesliga victory over Mainz on Saturday. Sky Germany reports that the 40-year-old is set to miss the remainder of the calendar year after being forced off shortly before half-time at the MEWA Arena. Bayern subsequently confirmed that Neuer sustained a partial tendon tear in his right foot, with the diagnosis established following an examination by the club’s medical department. The German record champions have not provided an official recovery timetable. According to Abendzeitung reporter Patrick Strasser, the best-case scenario would see Neuer return following the winter break in January. A longer rehabilitation period could keep the Bayern captain out until February. The latest setback is particularly concerning given Neuer’s recent problems with the same foot. The veteran goalkeeper had already missed matches this season because of persistent tendon irritation and only recently returned to action.

Manuel Neuer’s likely final season suffers another setback

The injury also arrives at a significant point in Neuer’s career. His current Bayern contract expires at the end of the season, and the 2014 World Cup winner has already strongly indicated that the 2026/27 campaign is likely to be his last as a professional. Speaking during Bayern’s summer training camp, Neuer suggested there was a strong likelihood that he would retire once the campaign concludes, having elected to continue for one more season because of his enjoyment of working with the current squad and coaching staff. The latest injury therefore raises the possibility that a significant stretch of Neuer’s final Bayern campaign could now be spent on the sidelines. There was at least one notable milestone for the Bayern legend before his early departure against Mainz. At the age of 40 years and 225 days, Neuer became the oldest player ever to represent Bayern Munich in a Bundesliga match, surpassing the club’s previous record. The landmark appearance instead ended with another injury setback and renewed uncertainty over when Bayern’s long-serving No.1 will next be able to take the field. GGFN | Brook Genene