German icon advises summer retirement
Maier believes his fellow World Cup winner has nothing left to achieve as recurring fitness issues disrupt his career at the Allianz Arena. Sustained during the first half on November 7, this latest blow adds to several matches the veteran has already missed this season. Consequently, 23-year-old deputy Jonas Urbig has already been called upon to make eight appearances across the campaign.
Physical toll catches veteran stopper
While stressing that the final call rests with the Bayern captain, the former Germany number one feels age is catching up with the sweeper-keeper pioneer.
Asked by Sport1 what he would say if Neuer sought advice on playing beyond next summer, Maier replied: "I would tell him, 'Call it a day, Manu!' You have given football an incredible amount, you have won everything and you no longer have anything to prove to anyone.
"Manuel has had an incredible career and revolutionised goalkeeping. But at some point, the body no longer holds up the way you would like it to. And even Manuel Neuer can't stop that moment from coming."
Clear goalkeeping hierarchy needed soon
With Urbig viewed as the club's long-term successor, the lay-off has sparked calls for the youngster to be made first choice immediately.
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Addressing that debate, Maier added: "At some point, you have to take that step. Manuel is 40 years old and Jonas Urbig is the future of Bayern Munich. But you cannot simply write Manuel off either. If he is fit and performing well, he should be allowed to play. However, Bayern need to make a clear decision sooner rather than later. This constant back-and-forth does neither goalkeeper any favours.
"When Manuel is fully fit, I still consider him one of the best goalkeepers. His experience, presence and understanding of the game are truly exceptional. But the crucial question is: how often is he still fully fit? Being world-class is no use if your body can no longer keep up. And Jonas Urbig is doing a good job. You shouldn't underestimate him either."
Winter break delays expected return
Neuer is now expected to miss between six weeks and two months, effectively ruling him out for the rest of 2026. He is projected to return after the Bundesliga winter break in January 2027, when talks over his future will intensify. Meanwhile, Urbig gets an extended run between the posts to prove he can claim the number one shirt permanently.
