Kompany Criticized for Sticking with Manuel Neuer After Bayern Draw

Manuel Neuer’s costly mistake has put Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany under scrutiny after their 2-2 Bundesliga draw with Union Berlin ended the club’s perfect start to the season. Bayern legend and former CEO Oliver Kahn questioned Kompany’s decision to start Neuer instead of backup Jonas Urbig, especially after the veteran goalkeeper’s error led to Bayern’s first dropped points of the campaign.

Manuel Neuer’s Error Halts Bayern Munich’s Winning Run

Manuel Neuer, regarded as one of the game’s all-time greats, had a night to forget at the Allianz Arena. In the 27th minute, Union Berlin’s Danilho Doekhi fired a shot that slipped through Neuer’s hands, gifting the visitors an early lead and shaking Bayern’s confidence. Although Luis Diaz brought Bayern level before halftime, Doekhi struck again late in the game, putting Union Berlin in front with just seven minutes left. Only a late equalizer from Harry Kane salvaged a point for the Bavarians, but their record 16-game winning streak was over.

Oliver Kahn Questions Kompany’s Goalkeeper Selection

After the match, Oliver Kahn criticized Vincent Kompany’s decision to persist with Manuel Neuer in goal, especially considering the mental strain following Bayern’s intense 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in midweek. Kahn suggested that a rest was due for the 39-year-old keeper, recommending that Jonas Urbig—recently signed from Koln—should have been given the nod against Union Berlin.

“It’s perfectly normal for even world-class goalkeepers to need breaks, especially after mentally exhausting games. I did it myself throughout my career,” Kahn told Bild Sport. He highlighted the increased recovery needs as players age and recalled requesting rest games during his later years as an active player.

Neuer Takes Responsibility for His Mistake

Always forthcoming, Manuel Neuer openly admitted his role in Bayern’s slip. “My view wasn’t perfect, and the distance was tricky, but I made the wrong decision on the first goal,” he stated post-match. Neuer also acknowledged that the team struggled to maintain focus after the big Champions League fixture midweek, yet he remained optimistic: “We believe we’ll soon get back to winning ways. In the end I think it was a good point.”

Kompany Defends His Number One

Despite the criticism, Vincent Kompany publicly backed his goalkeeper. “What do you expect me to say? Of course, I stand by my number one. It’s a collective game—there are always several factors that lead to a goal,” said Kompany in post-match comments. He stressed that every goal conceded is the result of multiple breakdowns, not just individual errors.

What’s Next for Manuel Neuer and Bayern Munich?

After the international break, Neuer and Bayern will look to bounce back with upcoming Bundesliga matches against Freiburg and St. Pauli. Their attention will quickly shift to the Champions League, where they face Arsenal in a crucial top-of-the-table clash. These games will be pivotal as Bayern seek to regain their momentum and maintain their place at the summit of both domestic and European competitions.

Fresh Options or Veteran Reliability?

The debate over whether Kompany should rotate his goalkeepers is now front and center. With Jonas Urbig waiting in the wings, many—like Kahn—believe management must find the right balance between experience and rest, particularly with Neuer now in the twilight of his career.

Opinion: Tough Decisions Lie Ahead for Kompany

Managing a legend like Manuel Neuer brings both privilege and challenge. While loyalty to veterans is admirable, Kompany must prioritize team performance and player fitness, especially during a grueling schedule. Bayern’s demanding standards mean no one is above rotation. As the season progresses, measured squad management—especially in goal—will be essential if Bayern hope to compete on all fronts. If you want to follow more developments and insights on Bayern Munich and global football, visit for more news.