Manuel Neuer plans to retire in summer 2027
Under contract until June 30, 2027, Manuel Neuer has admitted that his 21st Bundesliga season could mark the end of his illustrious professional career.
Manuel Neuer is nearing the finish line. The German goalkeeper is set to begin his sixteenth season with Bayern Munich, following five initial campaigns in the top flight with Schalke 04. At 40 years old, he'll kick off his 21st Bundesliga campaign.
Retirement now highly likely
In an interview with Bild, Neuer acknowledged that hanging up his boots at the end of the 2026-2027 season is now the most likely scenario.
"I don’t play thinking, 'This is my last match,' even though it might be the last time I set foot on a stadium’s pitch. But it really does look like I’m going to retire," admitted the Bayern captain.
Neuer had already considered calling time on his career last spring, before ultimately extending his contract for an extra year. Yet, his most recent campaign was a mixed bag. While Bayern clinched the league and German Cup double, the keeper suffered several injuries and delivered a few less convincing performances.
His return with Germany for the 2026 World Cup also ended in the round of 16 against Paraguay. He then officially closed the curtain on his international career after 128 caps.
The “15%” that convinced Neuer
The joy of working with the squad and the chance to compete for the biggest trophies ultimately convinced Neuer to keep going.
"I probably would have stopped in 85% of cases at the end of last season, but it’s just a joy to play in this team, with this coaching staff. We still have the chance to go for every trophy. We’re collectively at the peak of our game. That’s why this team, this squad, and the structure we have at the club are in the 15% that made me say: I absolutely have to continue. It’s simply a pleasure."
Also read: FIFA considers selling shares of the World Cup!
Jonas Urbig gradually preparing to take over
Having joined Bayern in 2011, Neuer is now approaching 600 official appearances for the club. He has won 34 trophies: 13 Bundesligas, seven German Cups, eight domestic Supercups, two Champions Leagues, two UEFA Super Cups, and two Club World Cups.
The upcoming season should also offer Jonas Urbig more playing time. At 22, the young German goalkeeper appears to be Neuer’s designated successor. A gradual transition could see the Bayern legend say goodbye to the pitch in the summer of 2027, with the aim of capturing one last major trophy.
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