Manuel Neuer Sees Red For First Time In 866-Game Career

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer made a forgettable debut in the the DFB-Pokal, also known as the German Cup against Bayer Leverkusen

The German Giant captain received a red card for the first time in his  866-match career on Tuesday for his typical foray outside the box. 

Seventeenth minute into the game of the Round of 16 of the German Cup, Manuel Neuer and Munich dashed from his line, colliding with  Bayer Leverkusen’s attacker Jeremie Frimpong. Neuer’s hefty frame crashed into the smaller opponent.

Referee Harm Osmers immediately got the red card without a second guess. Neuer had a brief exchange with the official but Osmers stuck to his decision as the goalkeeper clearly did not touch the ball. 

“It is always difficult for a goalkeeper,” said German national coach Julian Nagelsmann during halftime on Manuel Neuer’s incident.

Osmers handed out three yellow cards in addition to Neuer’s red in the opening 22 minutes.

Israel’s Daniel Peretz, who joined the club in the summer of 2023, stepped in as goalkeeper for his Bayern debut, and was seen apologising to coach Vincent Kompany after leaving the field.

Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning German Cup champions, secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a late goal from Nathan Tella in the 69th minute, after a goalless first half.

Following the defeat, Neuer’s teammates refrained from placing blame. “I didn’t see it as decisive. Manu has saved us on many occasions before,” said national team captain Joshua Kimmich. “99.9% of the time he makes the right decisions. No accusations!”

“It was one of our best displays. It frustrates me immensely that the first title is gone. Exiting hurts—we all play football to win. But we’re on the right path, even if this exit stings.”

Also Read: Illustrious International Journey Of Manuel Neuer In Numbers

Bayern Munich last won the German Cup in 2020 and since then have failed to reach the semi-finals of the competition. This narrow loss, despite a commendable performance with ten men, serves as an initial setback for the German giants, who are otherwise enjoying a remarkable Bundesliga campaign.

The defeat means the first of three title opportunities for Vincent Kompany and Bayern is lost. Following his retirement with the national team, this could also be the last season for Manuel Neuer With Bayern Munich. He would hope to end the campaign on a high with at least a trophy.