‘German Wall’ Manuel Neuer extends Bayern Munich contract until 2023

Bundesliga - 1. FC Union Berlin v Bayern Munich - Stadion An der Alten Forsterei, Berlin, Germany - May 17, 2020 Bayern Munich's Manuel Neuer, as play resumes behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) [REUTERS/Hannibal Hanschke]

Bayern Munich first-choice goalkeeper and captain Manuel Neuer has extended his contract with the club until 2023.

The club made the announcement on Wednesday, May 20, confirming the 34-year-old would continue manning the sticks for the Bavarians, who seek to reclaim their European glory days.

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Former Germany and Bayern goalkeeper Oliver Kahn said Neuer has made a strong statement by choosing to extend his contract, which was due to run out in 2021.

"We understood what was important for Manuel Neuer and in what direction he would like to go at this stage of his career. He has made a strong statement with this extension," Kahn said.

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Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge added the goalkeeper as the best in the world.

"During the weeks of the shutdown for the coronavirus pandemic, I didn't want to make a decision because nobody knew if, when and how Bundesliga football would continue. It was important for me to continue working with our goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic. Now, this has been resolved, I look to the future with great optimism. I feel very comfortable and at home in Bavaria. FC Bayern are one of Europe's top football clubs" said Neuer said in a statement.

Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said:

"That's what was very important to Manuel and to us. Manuel stands for the continuous success of FC Bayern, for responsibility and world-class standards. I am delighted about our continued work together.”