Neuer Signals Possible Farewell Season at Pre‑Season Camp

Berlin – The veteran Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer used the team’s preseason gathering in Tegernsee to drop hints that the 2024‑25 campaign may be his final stint in football. At 40 years old, the German keeper and captain answered questions about retirement after Germany’s early World Cup exit.

Neuer confirmed that he seriously contemplated hanging up his gloves before opting to continue training with his club and fellow internationals. “It looks like I will retire after this season,” he said. “When I’m playing I don’t think about it being my last.”

He disclosed that he was close to ending his career over the summer, but the positive vibe inside Bayern convinced him otherwise. According to reports, about 85 % of the time he would have retired, yet the enjoyment of working with the coaching staff and teammates kept him motivated. “We always have a chance to chase every trophy,” he added.

Although the disappointment of Germany’s World Cup performance still lingers, Neuer’s focus has shifted to Bayern’s next Bundesliga and Champions League challenges. “We had higher expectations, now we have new goals and we want to achieve a lot with the club,” he explained.

The captain highlighted that Bayern has retained its key players while integrating new signings, which raises the squad’s quality and confidence ahead of the new season. “We are very happy. Keeping the core together and adding new talent will make us even stronger,” he remarked.

Neuer stressed that the team’s ambitions go beyond merely repeating last season’s successes. “We want to beat everyone. The whole squad is motivated and we aim to achieve more than before,” he said.

He also confirmed that the goalkeeping unit, featuring Jan Oblak and Sven Ulreich, will continue to work as a cohesive group, supporting each other to deliver top‑class performances for Bayern.