Neuer faces key fitness test ahead of DFB-Pokal final and World Cup

Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is battling a calf injury that could jeopardise his participation in two major upcoming events: Saturday’s DFB-Pokal final against VfB Stuttgart and the FIFA World Cup.

The 40-year-old veteran was forced to leave the pitch during Bayern’s dominant 5-1 Bundesliga victory over 1. FC Köln at the weekend. 

He has not taken part in any training sessions since the match, raising immediate concerns about his fitness.

According to reports, Neuer will also miss Wednesday’s team training. He is scheduled to undergo a thorough examination of his calf on Thursday, with the results expected to provide clarity on his condition.

These medical findings will be decisive in determining whether the experienced shot-stopper can feature in the Pokal final this weekend.

Beyond the domestic cup showpiece, Neuer’s availability for the World Cup is also at stake. Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann is set to name his full squad on Thursday.

If Neuer is declared fit, he is widely expected to retain his position as the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper, underlining his enduring importance to the side despite his age.

Neuer’s potential absence would be a significant blow for both Bayern and Germany. As one of the most decorated goalkeepers in modern football, his leadership, shot-stopping ability, and distribution have been central to his teams’ successes over the years.

Bayern will be eager to secure the Pokal title to cap off their season, while the German national team prepares for the high-pressure environment of the World Cup.

Supporters and pundits alike will be closely monitoring Thursday’s medical update. For now, uncertainty surrounds the veteran’s immediate future, with hopes high that the tests will deliver positive news and allow Neuer to continue his remarkable career on the biggest stages.