After signing 1. FC Köln’s Jonas Urbig, Bayern Munich have bolstered their goalkeeping department with talent and youth. The hunt for 21 year-old involved the team captain and goalkeeping legend Manuel Neuer himself. Having a similar goalkeeping style as the Sweeper Keeper, Urbig could be the most like-for-like successor in Bayern Munich’s goal after Neuer hangs up his boots.
Manuel Neuer on Jonas Urbig: “We know about his qualities. I think it was a very good signing. We’re happy he’s joined now in winter. I think it’ll be fun to train with him, we’re trying to help and push each other within the goalkeeping team – the young keepers and the seniors” pic.twitter.com/1DxErUX443
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) January 30, 2025
Manuel Neuer, at 38 and nearing 39 is at the twilight of his career. His succession plan will be a challenging one to say the least. Neuer will go down as one of the greatest goalkeepers to grace the sport. His reinvention of the keeper’s role in modern football to bring out his signature “Sweeper Keeper” style of play influenced many goalies to follow his style. Excellent skills on the ball, a sharp presence of mind and a lightning quick ability to make decisions are prerequisites to be able to judge whether to charge forward and make a clearance or to drop back and guard the net.
Manu honed his skills to near perfection over many years. His expertise and experience will play a vital role to bring the youngsters in Daniel Peretz and Jonas Urbig up to speed to compete for the Number 1 jersey following Neuer’s retirement.
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