Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer talks about the challenges of this season

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was clearly not happy to see teammate Joshua Kimmich go down with a long-term injury against Borussia Dortmund. The 34-year-old understands, however, that injuries are part of the game, but also knows that the condensed schedule for the 2020/2021 season has player more at risk than ever before.

“Such injuries can always happen,” Neuer said (as captured by Abendzeitung). “They also happened before Corona and will happen when there are fewer games on the schedule.”

Photo by Friedemann Vogel - Pool/Getty Images

Neuer, however, does not want to sound like a complainer during this trying time for many. He appreciates the opportunity to work and play the game that he loves — even with the new challenges that this season will present.

“We are allowed — in contrast to many others — to play and we are very happy about it,” said Neuer (as captured by Tz). “You only have to look at the amateur soccer players or dare to take a look at other sports. So, we are very grateful for our situation. There has never been a season like this before and hopefully there will never be again. That’s why communication with each other is all the more important — with the coaches, the doctors and physios, and the players.”

With his recent injury history, Neuer is no doubt cognizant of how important self-care and communication will be over the course of the season. Bayern Munich’s captain will surely be a key cog in making sure those things stay at the forefront for the squad.