It’s good to have a plan — and Bayern Munich has a good one at the goalkeeper position.
As veteran superstar Manuel Neuer’s return continues to be uncertain, the Bavarians already have their contingency with Jonas Urbig, who could just as easily spend another year waiting in the wings.
But what helps beyond that is that the No. 3 keeper spot — which, as recent events have amply illustrated, is actually quite important — is solidified.
From Kicker journalist Frank Linkesch, as captured by @iMiaSanMia:
If Manuel Neuer extends, Jonas Urbig will continue to be developed behind him next season. Should Neuer end his career, Urbig would become the number one goalkeeper. An experienced backup would then be signed, and Ulreich would remain the third-choice goalkeeper [@FrankLinkesch]
It would sure make the summer easier for Bayern if Neuer did not retire, as then keeper would not be a transfer topic at all — depending on Ulreich signing a renewal. The veteran’s contract runs out at the end of the season and while it is still not certain, it just looks to make sense from every angle. As Kicker summarized:
It is realistic that Sven Ulreich would sign a new one-year contract at FC Bayern. The decision is his. If he wants it, the club will grant him an extension. Ulreich is not against the idea. He knows his role as third-choice goalkeeper, accepts it, and is ready when needed. Ulreich will make his decision independently of Manuel Neuer [@FrankLinkesch, @kicker]
Hard to ask for a better role-player on the squad than that — and in Ulreich’s case, one who has been around and showed again just recently how well he can perform when his number is called. The 37-year-old has persevered through tragedy this season and it would be nice to see Bayern keep him in the family as long as he is willing to play on.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
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