MUNICH — Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich’s seasoned goalkeeper, found himself in an unexpected predicament during his team’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League. While normally focused on stopping goals, Neuer incurred an injury from celebrating one.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when Neuer, revealing visible signs of a right ankle injury, exited the game in the 58th minute. This followed shortly after he enthusiastically celebrated Jamal Musiala’s successful strike for Bayern’s second goal by leaping near the halfway line.
With Neuer sidelined, Bayern introduced 21-year-old Jonas Urbig, a recent winter acquisition from Cologne, who stepped in to make his debut with the team. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany addressed Neuer’s injury by emphasizing the team’s depth and resilience, stating, “It happens sometimes. It’s unfortunate for us, but our strength lies in our squad depth. If Urbig is the man for the moment, we stand by him confidently.”
Urbig had a quiet game, as Bayern continued to dominate the match with little challenge. Bayer Leverkusen complicated their own efforts when Nordi Mukiele was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. Harry Kane’s penalty goal then secured the 3-0 triumph for Bayern and marked his second goal of the evening.
This match was eerily reminiscent of another when Neuer could not complete a game against Leverkusen earlier this season. During a German Cup encounter in December, he was sent off, marking the only occurrence of receiving a red card in his career, with Leverkusen seizing a 1-0 victory.
Bayern’s win on Wednesday broke a streak of unsuccessful fixtures against Leverkusen, coached by Xabi Alonso, marking their first victory in seven attempts in this seasonal rivalry. As the second leg looms next Tuesday, the question remains whether Neuer will be fit enough to participate.
