Manuel Neuer will sit out Saturday's DFB Cup final against VfB Stuttgart in Berlin due to a left calf muscle injury. Bayern Munich confirmed Friday that the 40-year-old, despite traveling with the squad, remains unfit for the competition's showpiece event. Jonas Urbig, the club's 22-year-old backup goalkeeper, will start in his place.
Neuer's absence marks another injury setback for the veteran shot-stopper, who has battled muscle-fibre problems throughout the season. He was substituted during last Saturday's 5–1 Bundesliga victory over Köln as a precaution following calf discomfort. Bayern's medical team determined that despite good recovery progress, lingering risk remains too high to deploy him in such a crucial match. The decision reflects Neuer's focus on the World Cup in North America, where he is expected to reclaim Germany's number-one position under coach Nagelsmann.
Urbig's Biggest Test Yet
Urbig's selection represents his 20th appearance this season and arrives at the pinnacle of his career to date. The young keeper has impressed during cup competitions but faces immense pressure defending Bayern's goal in a final. Sven Ulreich and Jannis Bärtl remain on the bench as alternatives for Vincent Kompany's squad.
Neuer's injury history this season tells a troubling story—he missed action in December, February, and March due to similar muscle complications. Yet he recently signed a contract extension through 2027, signaling Bayern's continued confidence in his long-term future. His inclusion in Germany's preliminary World Cup roster Thursday underscores his status as the national team's primary custodian heading into summer competition.
The DFB Cup final presents Stuttgart with an unexpected opportunity, though Bayern's overall squad depth should still favor the defending champions. Urbig's performance in Berlin will define both the immediate silverware outcome and his standing as the club's goalkeeper prospect heading into next season.
