MLS an 'option' for Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer - but artificial turf could ruin hopes of Germany legend moving to America

The 38-year-old has entered the last year of his contract with the Bundesliga side and was asked if he will opt for a spell abroad in the final phase of his career. The Bayern captain has said he would like to experience life in another county, but dismissed the notion of making the switch to the Middle East.

"I always wanted to play at the highest level. I have thought about this option over the course of my career; I have always had enquiries and offers," he said to Die Welt. "But I knew that Bayern was the best place for me because of the environment and the squad. There has never been a club where I have had more fun. Although you should never say never: I would not move to Saudi Arabia or Qatar. If anything, MLS would have been an option. I spoke to Bastian Schweinsteiger, who played there, about it. But you have to think it through carefully. Also because you play a lot on artificial turf there, which is not ideal for a goalkeeper."

Neuer joined Bayern from Schalke in 2011 and has made over 500 appearances in all competitions for the club. The 123-time Germany international is currently starring for the national team at Euro 2024, having started all four of his team's games so far.

After his involvement at Euro 2024, Neuer will take a break before joining up with the rest of the Bayern squad for pre-season. It's likely that the 2024-25 campaign will be the goalkeeper's last with the Bavarians, and it will be interesting to see what he chooses to do after that, with MLS clearly a possibility.