'Woltemessi!' - Manuel Neuer channels Thomas Muller and gives Bayern Munich's summer target Nick Woltemade hilarious nickname

Bayern kicked off their season with a 2-1 Supercup triumph over Stuttgart, courtesy of goals from England’s superstar Harry Kane and a high summer recruit from Liverpool Luis Diaz. Yet, the night truly belonged to captain Neuer, who at 39 rolled back the years with a commanding display in his 11th Supercup appearance. The veteran goalkeeper produced decisive saves, showcasing the reflexes and authority that have defined his legendary career.

After the match, Neuer turned the spotlight onto one of Bayern’s long-standing transfer targets, Euro U-21 sensation Nick Woltemade. In a lighthearted but telling moment, the skipper showered praise on the young forward and even dropped a cheeky transfer hint by giving him a playful nickname: “Woltemessi.” The quip not only drew laughs but also fuelled speculation that Bayern is still not yet done with their pursuit of the rising star.

Speaking about Stuttgart’s U-21 European champion, Woltemade, the Bayern captain was full of praise: "He's a very good player, who's also Woltemessi," said Neuer, smiling as he compared the youngster’s skillset to the Argentine legend.

The German striker is "someone who can do a lot on the ball, is unpredictable, and the same applies to Deniz Undav, for example," Neuer added.

But his comments didn’t stop there. With Bayern still looking to bolster their attack this summer, Neuer appeared to drop a subtle transfer hint, "I have a feeling something else will happen. But as I say every summer: We trust our managers. They'll do their homework, and we'll concentrate on football."

Neuer’s remark carried shades of Thomas Muller’s trademark wit, often used to break tension while also sending subtle messages. Just as Muller has been known to mix humour with insight when commenting on teammates or rivals, Neuer’s playful nickname for Woltemade did more than entertain. It added weight to Bayern’s ongoing pursuit of the 23-year-old forward, reinforcing the idea that even the dressing room leaders see him as a potential addition. With Stuttgart holding firm that “the case is closed,” Neuer’s words put added pressure on the Bundesliga rivals while keeping the rumour mill alive.

For Stuttgart, CEO Alexander Wehrle has been categorical in ruling out Woltemade’s departure, even after putting forward an improved contract club has even offered the striker an improved contract worth up to €2.5m per year, though Bayern’s proposal was reportedly three to four times higher, underlining how serious their pursuit is. For now, Woltemade remains a Stuttgart player, but with the transfer window still open and Neuer’s pointed remarks fresh.