Manuel Neuer, one of the key figures in the evolution of the goalkeeper position, gave an interview to L'Équipe where he discussed his career and his role in the modernization of football. Approaching his 40th birthday, the German goalkeeper revealed that his arrival in goal was a matter of chance. "I didn't choose the goalkeeper position. It was the coach who put me in goal. I had just joined the youth team at Schalke and there were no goalkeepers. No one wanted to take that position… Diving to the ground hurt, and no one wanted to do it," Neuer recalled, adding that his experience as a "street footballer" made him enjoy having the ball at his feet and participating in the game. The Bayern player, known for his bold style and involvement in play construction, confessed to his dual passion. "I love being a goalkeeper, but I also like having the ball at my feet, participating in the build-up, being the origin of a play, seeing that a pass can eliminate several opponents and create a chance… Although I prefer a save," he pointed out. Despite being a reference for many, his inspirations come from another generation. "I was inspired by Edwin van der Sar and Peter Schmeichel. In Germany, I can mention Jens Lehmann and Oliver Kahn," he noted. Neuer emphasized that his style of play is not for show, but rather for the effectiveness of the team. "I don't do things to later say that I revolutionized the game or that I initiated a more modern football for goalkeepers. I don't step onto the field to put on a show, but to produce the best football possible and seek what is effective for us," he stated. The German also believes that the position has room for evolution: "The goalkeeper's game has not yet been fully explored." When asked about the possibility of having played in another position, Neuer was clear about his abilities. "I could have played as a field player at a lower level. In a possession-based team in the third division, for example… I could have been a center-back or a '6' in front of the defense, in the style of Javi Martínez." The goalkeeper also took the opportunity to criticize time-wasting in today's football, suggesting a solution. "I would like to see a time limit applied for goal kicks and corner kicks, as happens with throw-ins, which have eight seconds. Time-wasting penalizes the game. The public wants more effective play… Teams waste time," he argued. Regarding the recognition of his position, Neuer feels that perceptions have been changing. "I believe that for a long time, goalkeepers were underestimated, but the position is gaining importance, as its impact on the game is much greater than previously thought," he emphasized. With a contract with Bayern until June 2026, the German does not set a date for the end of his career: "I can't say how much longer I will continue playing. It will depend on my health and my ability to perform. I am happy, fit, and curious to see how long it will last. I continue to enjoy it as much as ever."
Manuel Neuer The Bayern remains central to this story.
Manuel Neuer The Bayern remains central to this story.
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