By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Manuel Neuer has played down the threat of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, insisting FC Bayern Munich must prioritise collective performance over individual battles as they prepare to face Real Madrid in a decisive UEFA Champions League clash.
Bayern head into the second leg with a narrow advantage after securing a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, placing them firmly in the driving seat to reach the semi-finals.
Speaking ahead of the return leg, Neuer emphasised experience and team cohesion as the keys to overcoming the Spanish giants. “It’s not about the names, it’s about an important Champions League match for us, for the club. We’re playing against Real Madrid,” he said.
The veteran goalkeeper acknowledged Bayern’s detailed preparation but dismissed any fixation on star opponents. “Of course, we’ve analyzed them; we have the experience to play our best football as a team. That will be crucial tomorrow. If we function as a team, I’m very optimistic that we can reach the semi-finals.”
Neuer also rejected suggestions of revenge following previous encounters between the two European heavyweights, making it clear that past results will not influence Bayern’s mindset. “The current team is different; it’s not about that game anymore,” he stated. “We know it’s close, that anything can happen. But we’ll try to give it our all at home and advance—that’s our goal.”
With a slender aggregate lead and home advantage, Bayern enter the contest with momentum, but the margin remains tight against a Real Madrid side renowned for dramatic Champions League comebacks..
Leave feedback about this