Manuel Neuer's contract with FC Bayern is expiring: He talks about ending his career after this season

In the all-time ranking of players with the most Bundesliga appearances, Manuel Neuer currently sits in eighth place. To break into the top three, the FC Bayern goalkeeper would have to extend his contract again – but whether he will actually do so is something the former German international doesn't yet know.

Manuel Neuer will decide on the continuation of his career only in the new year. "I'm totally relaxed," said the 39-year-old Bayern Munich goalkeeper ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain (9 p.m. CET/Prime Video and live ticker at ntv.de) : "I'm taking my time over the winter. And then we can always talk."

For the 2014 World Cup winner, the overall situation would ultimately have to be right. "Many factors come into play," said Neuer, whose contract expires at the end of the season: "It's a question of health, fitness, and motivation. But also: what happens with the club next season. I can't answer that myself because it's still far too early."

Coach Vincent Kompany is in agreement with his number one player and doesn't want to push for a quick decision. "There's absolutely no need for time pressure," the Belgian said in Paris. "The important thing is that he enjoys himself and continues to perform as he is currently doing. And at some point, there will be a time when this is discussed. But it's not an issue right now in November."

Neuer, who turns 40 in March, has played for Bayern Munich since 2011. This season he is in top form and has been one of Bayern's key players. Recently, several experts have called for the goalkeeper's return to the national team, from which he retired after Euro 2024. During his time in Munich, Neuer won the Champions League in 2013 and 2020 and was crowned German champion twelve times.

With 531 Bundesliga appearances, he ranks eighth on the all-time list. To overtake record holder Karl-Heinz Körbel, he would have to continue playing until the season after next – that is, until 2027/2028. Körbel made a total of 602 appearances. This season, Neuer could at least move up to fourth place and overtake Klaus Fichtel (552), but he wouldn't be able to catch third-place Oliver Kahn (557) and second-place Manfred Kaltz (581) until next season at the earliest.