Bayern’s Neuer says signing of new keeper plays no role on plans

Doha (dpa) – Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer has said the club’s signing of keeper Alexander Nuebel was “irrelevant” for his future planning.

Neuer’s contract with Bayern runs for a further season with the German champions keen on extending the 33-year-old keeper’s deal for another two years.

The signing of 23-year-old Nuebel, who will join Bayern from Schalke in the summer on a five-year-contract, is a decision by the club “with regard to the next few years,” Neuer said on Monday at the team’s training camp in in Doha.

“Alex Nuebel is a top goalkeeper for whom the future could belong at some point,” Neuer said. “But for me it doesn’t matter that he comes to FC Bayern.”

Neuer dismissed the notion he could make way in games next season, saying: “I’m an athlete, I’m a professional, and I always want to play.”

Neuer’s future planning will also hinge on the club’s plans with Hansi Flick, who succeeded Niko Kovac as coach in November on an interim basis and now has the job at least until the end of the season.

“It’s a lot of fun working with Hansi Flick,” Neuer said.

“And, of course, it is also crucial for me who will be the long-term coach.”