FC Bayern Goalkeepers Quiz: How Well Do You Know Neuer & Co.?

Bergamo, Italy – FC Bayern Munich faces a significant goalkeeping conundrum ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League round of 16 second leg against Atalanta. The situation is complicated by injuries to both first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and veteran backup Sven Ulreich, leaving the availability of Jonas Urbig, the team’s number two, uncertain as he recovers from a concussion. The club is navigating an unusual scenario where the goalkeeper options are a major talking point, especially given Bayern’s commanding 6-1 advantage from the first leg.

The latest reports confirm that Neuer, 39, is still sidelined due to a muscle tear in his left calf. Here’s a recurrence of an injury he sustained earlier in February during a 4-1 win against Borussia Mönchengladbach, just weeks after returning from a similar issue. Bayern are understandably cautious about rushing the captain back into action, particularly with a comfortable lead in the Champions League tie. [1]

Ulreich, typically the third-choice goalkeeper, is similarly unavailable, suffering a torn muscle bundle. This leaves Urbig as the most likely candidate to start in Bergamo, but his participation hinges on his recovery from a concussion sustained during the first leg against Atalanta on March 11th. [4] He collided heavily with Atalanta’s Nikola Krstovic while conceding the 6-1 goal, forcing him off the pitch with assistance from coaches. Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen confirmed after the match that Urbig was taken to the hospital and diagnosed with a concussion. [4]

The concussion is expected to keep Urbig out for eight to ten days, according to reports from Bild. [4] Although, there’s been a positive development: Urbig returned to training with the Bayern squad on Monday, marking a crucial step in his recovery. [2] While his availability remains uncertain, the fact he’s back on the pitch offers a glimmer of hope for coach Thomas Tuchel. [2]

The situation has even led to speculation about the potential involvement of 16-year-ancient Leonard Prescott, but that scenario appears increasingly unlikely. [1] The club is prioritizing a safe return for its experienced goalkeepers and Urbig’s rapid recovery is now the most plausible solution.

Adding to the intrigue, Neuer himself participated in much of Monday’s training session. [2] However, it’s highly improbable he will feature against Atalanta, as Bayern are unwilling to risk further injury to their long-time captain. [1] The club is in a remarkably secure position heading into the second leg, essentially having already secured their place in the quarter-finals after the dominant first-leg performance. [2]

Should Urbig be deemed unfit, Sven Ulreich is poised for a surprising return to the starting lineup. The 37-year-old hasn’t guarded Bayern’s goal since a 5-0 Bundesliga win against Werder Bremen on September 21, 2024, after taking a break for personal reasons. [4] He publicly shared in August 2025 that his absence was due to the loss of his son, Len, after a long illness. [4] Ulreich’s experience and familiarity with the team would provide a degree of stability in a challenging situation.

The uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeping position underscores the importance of depth in modern football. Bayern’s current predicament highlights the risks of relying too heavily on a single player, even one as decorated as Manuel Neuer. The club’s medical staff will be closely monitoring Urbig’s progress in the coming days, with a final decision on his availability expected before Wednesday’s match.

For fans following the Champions League, the goalkeeper situation adds another layer of interest to what is already a compelling tie. While Bayern holds a substantial lead, the match in Bergamo will still be fiercely contested. The performance of whichever goalkeeper takes the field will be under intense scrutiny, as they attempt to maintain Bayern’s momentum and secure their passage to the quarter-finals.

Bayern Munich will face either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the quarter-finals, depending on the outcome of their respective ties. [2] The club’s focus, however, remains firmly on navigating the current goalkeeping crisis and ensuring a safe and successful trip to Italy.

The Champions League second leg between Atalanta and Bayern Munich is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18th, at 9:00 PM local time (CET) / 3:00 PM EST. [2]

Key Takeaways:

• Manuel Neuer remains sidelined with a calf muscle tear.
• Sven Ulreich is also injured, further complicating the goalkeeping situation.
• Jonas Urbig is recovering from a concussion and his availability is uncertain.
• Bayern Munich holds a commanding 6-1 lead from the first leg.

What do you think? Will Urbig be fit to play? Share your predictions in the comments below!