Report: Manuel Neuer could start Friday’s Bundesliga opener

Manuel Neuer could make his long-awaited return in Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga opener against Bayer Leverkusen. A decision on the keeper’s status will be made Thursday after training, according to a report in Germany.

After a lackluster preseason, having the calming presence of Neuer, the newly crowned captain, back in goal could be the boost the club needs to get the season started on a positive note.

His absence was glaring throughout the preseason. Not that Neuer would have been able to stop every single goal Bayern conceded, but his shot-stopping ability combined with his sweeper-keeper mentality was missed in Bayern’s overall execution.

The balance between bringing Neuer back from injury too soon is a fragile one. A line that if crossed could make the injury worse, but Carlo Ancelotti is well aware of the fragile nature of the situation, saying the club does want "to take any risks.”