Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will miss the remainder of the domestic season after a freak incident while on holiday.
The veteran shot-stopper, who departed the World Cup with Germany in the group stage for the second consecutive tournament, had gone on holiday in the immediate aftermath, but suffered a lower leg fracture while skiing which required surgery.
Neuer confirmed the news to his instgram fans, taking to the app to explain:
“Hey guys,what can I say, the end of the year could have definitely gone better… While I was trying to get my head clear while ski touring, I suffered a lower leg fracture. Yesterday’s surgery went well. Many thanks to the doctors! However, it hurts to know that the current season is over for me. Take care!”
As it stands, Bayern Munich will be relying on 34-year-old Sven Ulreich, who has appeared three times in the Bundesliga this season. With 86 appearances for the Munchen outfit to his name, he is a capable backup, but with both players now well into their 30s, it seems likely that Bayern will at least explore the option of adding another shot-stopper to their ranks this January on a short-term deal, with loanee Alexander Nubel considered the long term replacement.
Neuer’s injury is not expected to affect his future with Bayern, however. The 36-year-old may be out for the remainder of the season, but Oliver Khan has previously suggested that he will be staying far longer than the end of the season.
For now, however, Neuer will have to watch from the sidelines.
