'I have to take care of my bones!' - Manuel Neuer gives cheeky response over possible contract extension with Bayern Munich as goalkeeper nears 40

Neuer humorously deflected questions regarding his future following his side's dominant 4-0 Champions League victory against Club Brugge. The veteran goalkeeper, whose contract expires at the end of the season, has been in imperious form, prompting increasing debate over a potential extension.

The victory at the Allianz Arena was Bayern's 12th win in their 12th competitive match of the season. Goals from Lennart Karl, Harry Kane, Luis Diaz and Nicolas Jackson secured their third consecutive Champions League win.

When asked directly about the timing of a possible contract extension on Thursday night, Neuer joked about his advancing age and the physical toll of his career.

"I have to take care of my bones. It's getting late, and I'm already feeling it again," the 39-year-old said with a mischievous smile. "Let's see how it is when I get up."

Pressed on his morning routine, Neuer continued the joke: "Yes, the doctor's just passing by. I have to wait a moment." He then added: "There are good days - and better days."

While Neuer remains coy, Bayern Munich are preparing to open formal contract negotiations in December, according to reports in Germany. The discussions will focus on a new deal that could see the legendary shot-stopper remain the club's No. 1 beyond his 40th birthday and into the 2026-27 campaign.

Neuer, who joined Bayern in 2011 and kept a clean sheet against Bruges, has been in outstanding form this season, reinforcing his status as the undisputed first choice for manager Vincent Kompany.

A new contract for Neuer would have significant consequences for the future of his heir apparent, Nubel. The report states that should Neuer extend his stay, a "permanent sale" of Nubel next summer is considered "highly likely".

Nubel, 29, is currently on a long-term loan at Stuttgart but remains under contract with Bayern until 2029. Another loan move is reportedly "out of the question" for the club. Stuttgart, however, are believed to lack the financial means to secure Nubel on a permanent transfer, opening the door for other suitors.

Neuer's exceptional club performances have also reignited a public debate over a sensational return to the German national team for the 2026 World Cup, despite his retirement from international duty.

This speculation has intensified following news that Germany's current No. 1, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, is still out injured and is expected to be stuck on the bench at Barcelona after his recover if he decides against leaving in January.

Former Bayern and German Football Association (DFB) director Matthias Sammer added fuel to the fire when asked about a possible Neuer return, telling Sky: "If we can afford to do without our best players, then we shouldn't throw away the World Cup title."

In the immediate term, Neuer expressed his strong backing for manager Kompany, who signed an early contract extension with the club until 30 June 2029, just before the Bruges match.

"I simply think it's the logical step," Neuer said of his coach's new deal. "I think he's doing a great job with his team. It's fun to play in this team."

While speculation over his international future and long-term contract continues, Neuer's immediate focus remains on maintaining Bayern's perfect start to the season. The Bavarian giants face their toughest test of the campaign in two weeks when they travel to the French capital for a top-of-the-table Champions League clash with PSG.

The talks scheduled for December will prove decisive, not only for mapping out the final years of Neuer's illustrious career but also for forcing a definitive decision on the future of Nubel.