Challenges Faced by Manuel Neuer: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 7, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Manuel Neuer's life and career.

Manuel Neuer is a highly acclaimed German professional footballer, currently the captain and goalkeeper for Bayern Munich. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers ever, he is known for his innovative "sweeper-keeper" style, characterized by his proactive approach in rushing out of his goal to intercept opponents and his exceptional speed. Neuer was recognized as the best goalkeeper of the decade (2011-2020) by the IFFHS, solidifying his legacy as a highly influential figure in the sport.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

July 2011: Resolution of Fan Hostility

On 2 July 2011, a round-table discussion was held between Bayern and supporters to resolve fan hostility towards Neuer.

January 2015: Conceded Four Goals Against VfL Wolfsburg

On 30 January 2015, Neuer conceded four goals in a match against VfL Wolfsburg, marking the first time since joining Bayern in 2011 that he had conceded four goals in a league match.

April 2015: Missed Penalty in DFB-Pokal Semi-Final

On 28 April 2015, Neuer was one of four Bayern players to miss in a penalty shootout defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the DFB-Pokal semi-final.

September 2017: 100th European Appearance and Injury Setback

On 13 September 2017, Manuel Neuer made his 100th European appearance in a Champions League match. He was later ruled out until January 2018 due to another foot fracture.

September 2017: Foot Fracture

On 15 May 2018, Neuer was selected in Germany's 27-man preliminary squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup even though he had not played a match since fracturing his foot for a second time in September 2017.

2017: Missed Confederations Cup Due to Injury

In 2017, Neuer missed the FIFA Confederations Cup due to injury and illness.

January 2018: Expected Return from Injury

In September 2017, it was announced that Manuel Neuer would be ruled out until January 2018 due to another fracture to the same foot again.

2018: Missed World Cup Qualification Matches Due to Injury

In 2018, Neuer missed the rest of Germany's qualifying campaign for the FIFA World Cup due to injury and illness.

April 2019: Muscle Fiber Tear

On 14 April 2019, during a Bundesliga match against Fortuna Düsseldorf, Neuer sustained a torn muscle fiber in his left calf, causing him to miss six matches for Bayern in the season's closing stages.

August 2019: Loss in the German Super Cup

On 3 August 2019, Neuer's 2019–20 season started with a 2–0 loss to Borussia Dortmund in the German Super Cup.

November 2022: Skin Cancer Surgeries

In November 2022, Neuer revealed that he had undergone three surgeries on his face to treat skin cancer, leading him to collaborate with Angelique Kerber to promote sun cream.

December 2022: Leg Fracture While Skiing

In December 2022, Bayern Munich announced that Neuer suffered a fracture of his lower right leg while skiing, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

December 2022: Broke Leg in Skiing Accident

On 10 December 2022, Neuer announced that he broke his leg during a ski trip at Roßkopf on Spitzingsee in Bavaria, forcing him to miss the rest of the season.