Sven Ulreich recently extended his contract with FC Bayern until 2025. The deputy of regular goalkeeper Manuel Neuer continues to feel comfortable with the German record champions, but last year was not easy for the veteran.
In January, Ulreich was faced with a new competitor, Yann Sommer, after top dog Neuer broke his right lower leg while ski touring.
“It was of course a turbulent phase overall. After Manuel’s injury we needed a new goalkeeper,” Ulreich recalled in an interview with “kicker”.
Sommer came from Borussia Mönchengladbach for a hefty sum of millions and was immediately hired under the then coach Julian Nagelsmann, Ulreich was once again only left with the role of spectator.
“I would definitely have had the confidence to represent him until his return. I had trained well and was in shape. But the club’s decision was different, so you have to accept that,” Ulreich reflected.
However, since Sommer was hardly able to convince and fled to Milan, the shares of the long-time number two rose again. In the current season he reliably represented Neuer until his comeback.
FC Bayern: Ulreich couldn’t understand Tapalovic’s exit
Shortly after Neuer’s loss, the sudden separation from goalkeeper coach Toni Tapalovic caused negative headlines around FC Bayern.
“The separation from Tapa came as a surprise to us because we worked together very successfully with him,” revealed Ulreich and added: “Michaelrechner handled everything well, both professionally and communicatively. But overall, of course, it wasn’t an easy time.”
For the experienced goalkeeper, the new situation represented a turning point. “We had worked well together as a team for years – and suddenly everything was different, we all just had to get used to it,” admitted Ulreich.