Sven Ulreich is open to leaving Bayern Munich for the right opportunity

It was announced earlier this month that Bayern Munich has signed goalkeeper Alexander Nubel from Schalke to a 5-year deal for the 2020/20201 season. While it remains to be seen whether Nübel will indeed share goalkeeping duties with Manuel Neuer, he almost certainly will displace current second keeper Sven Ulreich. Ulreich accordingly is now open to a transfer away from Munich.

After Bayern’s 4-0 win over Hertha Berlin, Ulreich was asked about what his situation will be next season in light of Nübel’s signing. He answered candidly (Sport1):

If the possibility of playing regularly somewhere else, or at least more regularly than here, presents itself, then I would transfer and want to take this step. I also feel like doing that. I’m open to everything and can also imagine making a move abroad.

Photo by Angelo Blankespoor/Soccrates/Getty Images

Ulreich’s younger understudies, Christian Früchtl and Ron-Thorben Hoffmann are also unlikely to stay. Früchtl’s agent said in December that he would most likely go out on loan to gain consistent minutes and experience. And Hoffman recently voiced his displeasure with Bayern’s front office and said he intends to seek a transfer if he does not become Bayern’s number 3 keeper and the starter for Bayern II.

Ulreich stressed that his current contract with the club runs through next summer. If he is still at the club, he said, he’ll do everything he can to fight for his place as Neuer’s backup, even with Nübel in the picture:

I still have a year on my contract from the summer and the performance principle applies to this one, too. If I stay, I will do everything to stay the number 2 behind Manuel. I can promise that I will throw myself into it completely, should I stay at FC Bayern. I’m not afraid of competing.

Manuel Neuer recently requested a salary raise and said he was unwilling to concede any games to Nübel next season. He also made a point of praising Ulreich and his work ethic, for which Ulreich was grateful, in addition to the support he gets from manager Hansi Flick:

Of course I’m happy when one of the best goalkeepers in the world talks about me like that. We have a really positive relationship. I also was very happy about the statement by Hansi Flick. That is appreciation.

Ulreich also expressed his gratitude to the fans, which “have always supported me very much.”

Ulreich was also understanding of the reason why Bayern went for Nübel:

When a goalkeeper like him can be obtained on a free transfer and he has this potential, then you have to get him. That’s legitimate. But sure, you yourself are disappointed when the club decides in favor of signing another goalkeeper.