Bayern Await Neuer Fitness Verdict Before Arsenal Champions League Tie

Bayern Munich face a late decision over captain Manuel Neuer before Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Arsenal, with the goalkeeper yet to resume full first-team training.

The 40-year-old missed Bayern’s 6-1 win over RB Leipzig at the Allianz Arena and has instead worked indoors at Säbener Strasse. His absence also followed the 3-3 draw with Viking, adding to concerns over his availability during a demanding period of the season.

Quick facts

• Manuel Neuer has fluid in his foot and did not feature against RB Leipzig.
• Bayern play Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday.
• Jonas Urbig, 23, has been covering in goal during Neuer’s absence.
• Jamal Musiala will miss the Arsenal match as he recovers from a right-thigh muscle tear.
• Bayern expect Musiala to return during October after a gradual reintroduction.

Sporting director Max Eberl said Neuer’s issue was not a broader foot injury but a build-up of fluid. The condition prevented the World Cup-winning goalkeeper from playing at the weekend, although Bayern have not ruled him out of the Arsenal fixture.

“There is just some fluid in the foot,” Eberl said. “It was not sufficient for him to play today. We will see whether Wednesday is possible.”

Neuer’s continued individual work leaves Jonas Urbig on standby for another major assignment. The 23-year-old German has already made several appearances this season and was in goal for the emphatic victory over Leipzig.

Urbig said he was prepared to continue if required, while hoping Bayern’s first-choice keeper would return soon. “I approach matches with a positive feeling and I feel very good,” he said. “We want to be prepared so the coach can choose the starter every time. I hope Manu is back soon, but I will be ready whenever I am needed.”

Bayern have a clearer answer on Jamal Musiala. The Germany international will not be available against Arsenal after suffering a muscle tear in his right thigh three weeks ago.

Eberl said Musiala’s comeback would be managed cautiously rather than rushed for the European tie. He does not expect the attacking midfielder to be ready on Wednesday, but believes he will return in October.