Bayern “discussing various options” to replace Neuer

Bayern Munich are “discussing various options” as they look to replace Manuel Neuer, says club boss Oliver Kahn.

Bayern Munich CEO Oliver Kahn has provided an update on the German champions’ search for a replacement for Manuel Neuer, who has been ruled out until the end of the season with a broken leg.
Sven Ulreich would be ready to cover for Neuer as he has done on a number of occasions in the past, but the Bavarians are considering other options too.

Currently, Gladbach goalkeeper Yann Sommer looks like the most likely replacement after reportedly reaching a verbal agreement with Bayern, but nothing is set in stone yet.

“In Sven Ulreich, we have a reliable goalkeeper, who is familiar with the situation. [Board member for sport] Hasan Salihamidzic, [head coach] Julian Nagelsmann, [technical director] Marco Neppe and I are discussing various options without rushing,” Kahn told Bild.

“But replacing Manuel Neuer in the winter break is of course tremendously difficult, especially as not many clubs are keen on letting their number 1 go.”

Kahn is confident that Neuer will fight his way back in top form, but the rest of the season is in the foreground at the moment.

“We know Manuel. He will give everything to come back in top form. And a Manuel Neuer in top form is still absolutely world class,” noted the Bayern chief.

“We hope that his rehabilitation period will be without complications. But football is a short-term business. We have to think about the here and now.”

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