Manuel Neuer has spent the better part of two decades redefining what it means to play goalkeeper. Now, at 40 years old, he wants to redefine what it means to leave on top.
The Bayern Munich captain has set his sights on a third Champions League title during the 2026/27 season, which he has strongly hinted will be his last. His contract with the Bavarian club runs until June 30, 2027, and rather than coasting toward a farewell tour of handshakes and testimonial matches, Neuer is treating this final campaign like a mission.
One more dance in Madrid
Bayern Munich’s Champions League journey this season kicks off with a league phase match against FK Bodo/Glimt on September 10, 2026. The road ends, for whoever survives, at the final in Madrid on June 5, 2027.
With over 160 Champions League appearances, he holds the record for the most by a German player in the competition’s history. He lifted the trophy in 2013, when Bayern dismantled Borussia Dortmund at Wembley, and again in 2020, when they steamrolled through a pandemic-altered tournament in Lisbon.
