Heavy blow for Bayern! Team leader will not play again this year
Bayern Munich have suffered a devastating blow, losing one of their most experienced leaders for the remainder of the year.
Details: The German giants have officially confirmed that legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer suffered a partial tendon tear in his right foot during Saturday's Bundesliga clash against Mainz. The 40-year-old captain sustained the injury while attempting to deal with a dangerous set piece and was forced to leave the pitch before half-time, with Jonas Urbig coming on as his replacement.
According to renowned insider Fabrizio Romano, Neuer will not return to action before January 2027. Bayern's official announcement confirmed the diagnosis but did not specify an exact recovery timeline.
The setback is particularly painful considering the goalkeeper had only recently returned after struggling with tendon problems in the same foot. Neuer had already missed several matches because of the injury before making his comeback, only to suffer another serious blow.
Despite losing their captain, Bayern secured a 2-1 victory over Mainz thanks to goals from Joshua Kimmich and Lennart Karl. Jonas Urbig finished the match between the posts and is now expected to take on greater responsibility during Neuer's absence.
It is worth noting that Neuer set a historic club record in this very match. At 40 years and 225 days, he became the oldest player ever to represent Bayern Munich in a Bundesliga fixture.
Reminder: Neuer has etched his name into history! Legendary goalkeeper sets yet another record
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
