Manuel Neuer explains delayed return from calf injury

Manuel Neuer has explained why his recovery from the calf injury he sustained against Bayer Leverkusen in March took much longer than initially expected.

When Manuel Neuer suffered a muscle fiber tear in his right calf during Bayern Munich’s Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen in early March, the club initially expected him to be sidelined for just a few weeks.

However, the veteran goalkeeper’s recovery turned out to be more complicated than anticipated, and the 39-year-old only made his return in last week’s 2-0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach.

In an interview with Abendzeitung, Neuer explained why his recovery took longer than hoped.

“I realized I had to be careful not to do too many sprints,” he said.

“Unfortunately, it took longer because calf injuries tend to be a bit more complicated at a certain age. And the calf is always a sensitive area. That’s why I had to give myself the necessary time.”

Now, though, Neuer says he feels fully fit and ready for the challenges ahead.

“The Club World Cup isn’t an issue, and next weekend won’t be a problem either.”

Bayern face Hoffenheim in their final Bundesliga game of the season on Saturday. They play their first game at the Club World Cup against Auckland City on June 15.