As Bayern Munich faces a period of transition behind the scenes, questions swirl around the future of their goalkeepers. The club’s backup keeper Daniel Peretz is at the center of a transfer saga, while veteran star Manuel Neuer continues to demonstrate his class on the biggest stage.
Daniel Peretz: Caught in Transfer Limbo
Daniel Peretz, who joined Bayern from Maccabi Tel Aviv in the summer of 2023 for €5 million, could be set for another move as he seeks more first-team opportunities. The 24-year-old Israeli international has seen multiple potential transfers fall through in recent weeks. A loan deal with PSV Eindhoven collapsed over differing views on a buyout clause, and FC Copenhagen ultimately chose to sign Dominik Kotarski instead.
The situation took another turn as Hamburg SV renewed their interest in Peretz. Talks between Hamburg’s director Claus Costa and Peretz’s camp, which had stalled earlier in the year, are now reportedly back on. However, the competition for the starting spot at HSV remains fierce, with Daniel Heuer Fernandes holding the number one jersey and Matheo Raab—HSV’s backup—still undecided about his own future. For Peretz, a move to Hamburg might not guarantee a starting place, adding another layer of complexity.
There’s also interest from Italy, with Genoa emerging as a possible destination. While some sources claim negotiations are already advanced, others report that direct contact between the clubs has yet to take place.
Bayern’s Backup Plans and Squad Depth
Bayern is not waiting idly as the situation unfolds. The club is preparing for Peretz’s departure by promoting Jonas Urbig, who arrived from Cologne last winter, as the primary backup to Manuel Neuer. Additionally, the experienced Hendrik Bonmann—currently with Ludogorets Razgrad and formerly of Borussia Dortmund—has been mentioned as a potential third-choice keeper. Bayern’s management is determined to maintain depth and reliability between the posts, no matter how the transfer window plays out.
Manuel Neuer: Aging Like Fine Wine
Amidst these uncertainties, Manuel Neuer remains a constant source of inspiration. At 39, the Bayern captain delivered a series of exceptional performances at the Club World Cup, standing out even as the team fell short of ultimate victory. Neuer’s quick reflexes and command of the penalty area were on full display, helping his side with critical saves against top talents from Boca Juniors, Benfica, Flamengo, and PSG.
Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl couldn’t help but praise Neuer’s remarkable longevity, humorously likening him to a vintage wine that gets better with age. “He keeps getting better and better. He’s outstanding and incredibly fresh,” Eberl remarked in Atlanta, Georgia. Neuer’s brilliance was a bright spot for Bayern during the tournament, reinforcing his status as a key leader and elite performer.
Controversy and Leadership
However, Neuer also found himself in the spotlight for his candid criticism of PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, following a controversial challenge that left Bayern’s Jamal Musiala injured. Neuer questioned the necessity of Donnarumma’s aggressive play, emphasizing that goalkeepers need to respect the safety of opponents.
Looking Forward: Change and Continuity
As Bayern Munich navigates a pivotal transfer window, the club is balancing change and continuity. Daniel Peretz’s future remains unresolved, but Bayern’s commitment to squad strength is clear. Meanwhile, Manuel Neuer’s ongoing excellence ensures the team has stability and star power as it heads into the new season. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the club’s goalkeeping lineup—and could set the tone for Bayern’s ambitions on all fronts.