Neuer set to make return in goal for Bayern after lengthy absence

Having been sidelined for several weeks with a muscle fiber tear in his calf, Manuel Neuer is back in team training and closing in on a return to action. According to reports, the 39-year-old is expected to be between the posts for Bayern Munich in their upcoming Bundesliga clash against RB Leipzig on Saturday.

Despite impressing during Neuer’s absence, Jonas Urbig will have to make way for the veteran, provided Neuer is fit enough to play. Neuer has been out since suffering the injury during Bayern’s 3-0 Champions League last-16 first-leg victory over Bayer Leverkusen on March 5.

Neuer’s return could further push Peretz down the pecking order, as Urbig will have to make do with a place on the bench. The Israeli goalkeeper is fully expected to depart Bayern in the summer either on loan or a permanent deal with a buy-back clause.

The third-choice goalkeeper with the preference for a loan has agreed to move to the Bundesliga, where he can prove himself. Other clubs interested in Peretz include English club Southampton and French side RC Lens.

Another player set to exit Bavaria this summer is Eric Dier. The Englishman is set to leave Germany after spending a year and a half at the club.

Dier will join AS Monaco, who currently occupy fourth place in Ligue 1 with three matches left, offering the defender a good chance of European football upon his arrival in the Principality on a two-year deal valid until 2027, with an option to extend. 

Moving forward into the summer, Bayern may choose to act early and add to their defensive ranks before the Club World Cup begins on June 14th. A win in Leipzig would secure Bayern’s Bundesliga title, and Neuer will undoubtedly want to be part of that achievement if possible.