Veteran Bayern Munich goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, has carved another notch in his illustrious football career by becoming only the second goalkeeper to feature in 150 Champions League matches. This monumental achievement comes during his 14th season with the Bundesliga giants, further cementing his status as one of the most iconic players in the club’s history.
Neuer’s 150th appearance occurred during the Champions League Round of 16 game against Bayer Leverkusen, a match that saw him join the ranks of an exclusive club previously only inhabited by former Real Madrid shot-stopper, Iker Casillas. Casillas, who holds the record with 177 appearances, remains the only other goalkeeper to have reached the 150-mark in the prestigious competition.
A former Schalke player, Neuer’s transition to the Bavarian side has seen him amass an impressive 60 clean sheets in the Champions League, the highest in the competition. This achievement, combined with his recent 150th appearance, underscores his enduring influence and dominance between the posts.
Despite his recent contract extension that will see him remain at the Allianz Arena for another season, it’s unlikely that Neuer will surpass Casillas’ record. Even if he were to start every game from now until the end of next season, the 38-year-old would still fall short of the former Real Madrid goalkeeper’s milestone.
However, this won’t trouble the seasoned pro, who was in jovial spirits even as he exited the field due to an injury in the 58th minute of his milestone match. The nature of Neuer’s injury remains unclear, but his relaxed demeanour, evidenced by his laughter and smiles as he made way for young Jonas Urbig, suggests it may not be serious. Fans are hopeful that he will be fit and ready to take the field in the second leg.
Neuer’s latest achievement comes amidst rumours of Bayern Munich’s plans to secure a $63 million replacement for the iconic goalkeeper. But for now, the spotlight remains firmly on Neuer as he continues to make his mark in the annals of Champions League history. His contribution to Bayern Munich has been immense and his place among the greats is undisputed. As he prepares for the second leg, all eyes will be on this living legend and his continued influence on the pitch.