Bayern Munich Faces Goalkeeping Crisis Ahead of Leverkusen Clash
MUNICH – A head injury to Jonas Urbig has thrown Bayern Munich into a goalkeeping dilemma as they prepare to face Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday. The 22-year-ancient sustained the concussion during the sensational 6-1 Champions League first-leg victory over Atalanta in Bergamo on March 10, colliding with Atalanta striker Nikola Kristović. According to reports, Urbig is expected to be sidelined for approximately one week due to the concussion. [1, 2]
With Manuel Neuer also unavailable due to a renewed muscle fiber tear in his left calf, Bayern will once again turn to veteran goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. The 37-year-old is set to make his 104th appearance for Bayern in Saturday’s match against Leverkusen. [1, 2]
Neuer’s Recovery and Ulreich’s Return
Neuer, who suffered the muscle injury during Bayern’s 4-1 Bundesliga win against Gladbach on March 6, is continuing his rehabilitation. As of Thursday, he was not training on the pitch, instead undergoing individual rehab at the Säbener Straße training facility. [2] His program included jogging on a treadmill and specialized exercises with and without weights, supervised by rehab trainers Quirin Löppert and Simon Martinello, along with goalkeeper coach Michael Rechner. [2]
Bayern are taking a cautious approach with Neuer’s recovery, particularly with a crucial period of matches approaching in April. He will miss both the Leverkusen game and Wednesday’s Champions League return leg against Atalanta. [2]
Ulreich was the first player on the pitch for Thursday’s team training session, appearing highly motivated. Jannis Bärtl, 19, with nine appearances for Bayern II, and 16-year-old Leonard Prescott, who has made 16 appearances for the U19 team, were also present as backup options. [2]
Further Injury Concerns for Bayern
The situation is compounded by injuries to Alphonso Davies, who sustained a hamstring strain, and Jamal Musiala, who is experiencing pain in his left ankle. Musiala underwent surgery in July 2025 to repair ligament damage following a fibula fracture. [2]
Hiroki Ito, however, has returned to team training after recovering from a muscle fiber tear in his right hamstring. Although he has rejoined training, he remains unavailable for the match against Leverkusen. [2]
Ulreich Steps Up in a Familiar Role
Sven Ulreich’s experience will be vital for Bayern as they navigate this goalkeeping crisis. Having not played since September 2024, the veteran shot-stopper will be called upon to provide stability between the posts. The club may also consider giving 16-year-old Leonard Prescott his senior squad debut, given their comfortable 11-point lead in the Bundesliga. [1, 2]
The injury to Jonas Urbig is a setback for the young goalkeeper, who had been performing well. He was disoriented after the match against Atalanta and was taken to the hospital for examination for visual disturbances. A diagnosis is still pending. [1]
This goalkeeping situation adds another layer of complexity to Bayern’s preparations for a crucial period. They will demand to rely on Ulreich’s experience and potentially give a young player an opportunity as they continue to compete on multiple fronts. [1, 2]
Bayern Munich’s next challenge is a Bundesliga clash against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, March 15. The match is scheduled for 15:30 local time (CET). Following that, they will travel to Bergamo for the Champions League round of 16 second leg against Atalanta on Wednesday, March 19, with a 21:00 CET kickoff. [2]
What are your thoughts on Bayern’s goalkeeping situation? Share your predictions for the Leverkusen match in the comments below!
