Kahn plays down Kobel links

Oliver Kahn has insisted that Bayern Munich are not keeping an eye on Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

Bayern Munich CEO Oliver Kahn has dismissed suggestions that the German champions have identified Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel as a possible long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer.
“I have no idea where these rumors are coming from,” Kahn is quoted as saying by Sport Bild.

“I have never commented on the player Gregor Kobel and his performances,” added the Bayern chief.

After Manuel Neuer suffered a season-ending leg injury, Bayern have brought in Yann Sommer form Gladbach on a contract until 2025. In addition, the Bavarians also have Alexander Nübel coming back from a loan spell at Monaco at the end of the season.

“We’re very well equipped in the position despite Neuer’s injury,” Kahn noted, assessing the goalkeeping situation at the club.

“With the international experience of Yann Sommer, we found the optimal solution in the short term and can reach our big goals in all competitions.

“Manuel Neuer is a world class goalkeeper. We’ll give him time and calm until he comes back. When he’s in top form, he’s still one of the best in the world.

“It’s legitimate that [Nübel] wants to come back under conditions of playing time. That’s exactly what I told him: ‘You’ll only get better if you play’. We’ll see after his loan ends. We’ll observe Yann Sommer’s performances and wait for Neuer’s recovery process.”

More about Gregor Kobel