With his frustration interview, Manuel Neuer has upset FC Bayern. While his superiors are severely disappointed by the captain’s statements, the experienced player also receives support from other quarters. One who can at least partially understand both sides is Schalke legend Olaf Thon.
In the 4-2 away win in Wolfsburg on Sunday evening, FC Bayern gave the right sporting response to the most recent crisis in the Bundesliga and the fuss surrounding keeper Manuel Neuer. Nevertheless, the atmosphere at the record champions is still tense.
Neuer’s interview with the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, in which he sharply criticized the club for the separation from goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic, nevertheless continues to resonate.
Olaf Thon, who himself played in Munich for a few years, sees everyone involved in a dilemma. “Like many other professionals before him, Manuel Neuer is experiencing that towards the end of a great football career it can sometimes get complicated between people,” wrote the ex-professional in his “kicker” column.
“Healthy world at FC Bayern”? Thon doubts
Even if he didn’t want to answer the question of “to blame for the current dilemma”, Thon targeted the German industry leader around his bosses Oliver Kahn and Hasan Salihamidzic.
“What I see is that those responsible in Munich are not currently filling their credo of the ideal world at FC Bayern with life in a very exemplary manner,” complained the 56-year-old, who at the same time assumed that Neuer had “recently not dealt with his feelings confidently enough ” to be.
However, the tablecloth has not yet been completely cut up. “From my experience, I know that Bayern can forgive if you perform well – and that’s exactly where I start with my eyes on Neuer. I hope that he not only shows stamina, but also feels encouraged by the whole thing,” so Thon.
Thon: Neuer threatens to have a “black mark” on his CV
Thon advised Neuer to react calmly without any defiance or thoughts of escape. “In my view, in the current situation, not only would other European countries be taboo, but above all a farewell to despair in the direction of the Middle East,” clarified the former national player.
He hopes for a “now more than ever” attitude at Neuer. “He must feel spurred on by the events of the past few days and weeks,” said Thon: “Anything else would result in a black spot on his super great career.”