Manuel Neuer was withdrawn from Bayern Munich's Bundesliga clash against Cologne on Saturday after sustaining a muscular problem, prompting fresh questions about his availability for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The club's medical team confirmed the 40-year-old goalkeeper has been advised to rest due to calf muscle strain on his left side, a recurring issue that has disrupted his season.
Speaking to Bavarian broadcaster BR, Neuer explained his precautionary approach. "I just felt it on my left side. I'd been having a bit of trouble with my calf, and I didn't want to take any risks," the German captain said. Bayern's medical department has not disclosed a specific recovery timeline, leaving uncertainty over his participation in next Saturday's DFB-Pokal final against Stuttgart—a potentially significant fixture in Bayern's domestic campaign.
Recurring Calf Problems Cloud World Cup Hopes
This latest setback marks the third occasion this Bundesliga season that Neuer has battled calf injuries. The pattern of muscular problems is becoming a concern at an age when recovery windows naturally extend. Despite his reputation as a world-class goalkeeper and two-time Champions League winner, persistent soft-tissue issues could influence national team selection decisions ahead of 2026.
Head coach Julian Nagelsmann declined to comment when questioned about Neuer's World Cup prospects during ZDF Sportstudio coverage on Saturday evening, maintaining discretion around the veteran's long-term availability. According to Sky Deutschland, national team boss Julian Nagelsmann is expected to recall Neuer for international duty, yet the recent injury pattern may force tactical reassessment.
Bayern Munich faces a careful balancing act managing their aging goalkeeper's workload while maintaining competitive standards across all competitions. The DFB-Pokal final will serve as a critical test of his recovery and readiness for the remainder of the campaign.
