Bayern Munich Paying Sven Ulreich More as a Backup Than Stuttgart Did as a Starter

At just 26, Sven Ulreich's move to Bayern Munich has come with much skepticism, including from club legend Sepp Maier. However, there is apparently a significant monetary difference between the Rekordmeister and Ulreich's old club Stuttgart.

According to SPORT BILD PLUS, the contract Ulreich signed is for three years and €7.5 million, a 25 percent wage increase over the €2 million per year he was making with the Schwaben. Ulreich insists his move was not monetary-based.

"I know that right now one or another believe I only went for the money," Ulreich said to SPORT BILD PLUS. "But I can guarantee: that is very much not the case. I did not come to Munich to have a good tie on the bench. I want to become a better goalkeeper here."

Ulreich narrowly avoided relegation in 2014/15 with Stuttgart, winning on Match Day 34 to ensure promotion. Once the Bundesliga reached its conclusion, Bayern technical director Michael Reschke supposedly reached out to Ulreich to gauge his interest in coming to Munich. The 26-year-old seized the opportunity, saying it took a matter of seconds to make a decision.

"There was a conversation between me and my agent. We did not feel the confidence from [Stuttgart]," said Ulreich, "After five years and 176 league matches for VfB, I didn't want to start from zero again. There was an open competition for the number one spot at VfB."

Instead of battling to be Stuttgart's No. 1, he is now the No. 2 behind Neuer. Although his playing time will decrease drastically, it is a role he is comfortable in assuming for now.

"I am mentally ready for the situation. I am a team player, and will bring myself in for the team," said Ulreich. "I will set myself goals so I can develop further. That is definitely a good middle ground for frustration, when someone is sitting on the bench."