Manuel Neuer Extends Bayern Stay To 2027, De Ligt Ruled Out Of World Cup

Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has signed a one-year contract extension with Bayern Munich, committing his future to the German champions until 2027.

The 40-year-old’s previous deal was due to expire this summer, but he will now enter a 16th season in Munich.

“It was a clear decision after taking some time to reflect,” said Neuer. “All the conditions are met here: with this team, we can beat any opponent,” he said.

Neuer remains widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. He finished third in the 2014 Ballon d’Or voting behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, the last time a goalkeeper made the top three.

German newspaper Bild reported he is expected to play fewer matches in the 2026-2027 season while helping ease the transition to back-up keeper Jonas Urbig. Bayern have also extended the contract of third-choice goalkeeper Sven Ulreich by another year.

Neuer who won the 2014 FIFA World Cup with Germany, retired from international football in 2024 after 124 caps. He was recently named UEFA man of the match following Bayern’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg win away to Real Madrid.

Since joining from Schalke 04 in 2011, Neuer has won two Champions League titles and a record-equalling 13 Bundesliga crowns, matching long-time teammate Thomas Müller. He has also lifted the German Cup six times.

Meanwhile, Matthijs de Ligt will miss the 2026 World Cup after undergoing back surgery, Manchester United confirmed.

The 26-year-old has not played since the win over Crystal Palace on 30 November. At the time, then manager Ruben Amorim described the issue as minor, with current boss Michael Carrick initially ruling out surgery.

United later confirmed the procedure after the defender failed to make progress in training.

“Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury,” said a United statement.

“Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action.”

The Netherlands begin their World Cup campaign against Japan on 14 June, but United do not expect De Ligt back until the early stages of the 2026-2027 season.

“Since November I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football,” said De Ligt.

“I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible.”

He could still travel with the squad for pre-season, which begins in Helsinki against Wrexham on 18 July while continuing his rehabilitation.