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Vincent Kompany's Surprise Update on Manuel Neuer's Rapid Recovery and Bayern's Clash with Borussia Dortmund

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has delivered a promising update on Manuel Neuer's fitness ahead of the highly anticipated Der Klassiker showdown against Borussia Dortmund. Neuer's swift recovery from injury could see him make a dramatic return to the starting lineup, providing a significant boost for the league leaders. Read on to find out more about this unexpected development and the intense build-up to the upcoming clash.

Vincent Kompany's Surprise Update on Manuel Neuer's Rapid Recovery and Bayern's Clash with Borussia Dortmund

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has delivered an optimistic update regarding Manuel Neuer's fitness ahead of the highly anticipated Der Klassiker. The 39-year-old veteran goalkeeper has made a surprisingly rapid recovery from a calf injury and could make a dramatic return to the starting lineup against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park this Saturday, providing a massive boost for the league leaders.Bayern could receive a massive defensive boost ahead of Der Klassiker, with head coach Kompany hinting that Neuer might make a surprise return. The 39-year-old veteran goalkeeper has been sidelined since sustaining a calf injury during the 3-0 victory over Werder Bremen two weeks ago, leading many to assume he would miss the crucial trip to the Signal Iduna Park.However, his rehabilitation has progressed remarkably faster than the medical department initially projected, putting him firmly back in contention for one of the biggest fixtures on the calendar. Kompany addressed the media on Friday morning, admitting that the club captain's rapid recovery has caught the coaching staff completely off guard, though a final decision will depend on the concluding training session before the team travels to Dortmund.During his pre-match press conference, the Belgian tactician provided a highly optimistic update on the situation, keeping the door wide open for his undisputed number one. "Manu looks pretty good, actually. We thought he would be out for even longer. He's doing well and might even train today," Kompany explained, noting that they are closely monitoring his progress ahead of the Bundesliga showdown.The manager also clarified the contingency plan if the veteran fails a late fitness test, confirming that 22-year-old backup goalkeeper Jonas Urbig is fully prepared to step up. "It might not be enough for tomorrow. If not, then we'll do it with Jonas Urbig," he added, expressing confidence in the young understudy who would face the daunting task of replacing a legend who boasts 26 career victories across 44 historic appearances against the Black and Yellows.The upcoming Klassiker carries immense weight given the current Bundesliga standings, and Kompany is fully embracing the intense rivalry and mutual desire for domestic supremacy. While Bayern head into the clash maintaining high standards, their bitter rivals are currently licking their wounds following a spectacular 4-1 Champions League exit at the hands of Atalanta on Wednesday.Despite this crushing midweek defeat, Kompany refuses to underestimate the hosts or dwell on their fragile psychological state, suggesting that such heavy losses can often spark unpredictable and dangerous responses from a wounded opponent. "It can do anything. It's obviously a setback. It was the kind of game in which Dortmund could also have progressed. Mentally, it always does something. What comes out of it can go in both directions," the Bayern boss cautioned the press, expecting a fierce battle on Saturday.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingRather than focusing on Dortmund's European heartbreak, Kompany preferred to highlight the incredibly productive atmosphere within his own squad throughout their preparations for the Westfalenstadion trip. He noted a particular competitive edge and fierce aggressiveness among his players on the training ground, which he believes will be crucial for securing a vital away victory and extending their lead at the summit of German football."We have control over how we go into this game. We've had a good week," Kompany explained, praising the determined spirit shown by his star-studded roster. "It was this healthy aggression in training, which I love," he added, referring to the intense competitive bite that characterises a championship-winning team preparing for a hostile environment. 

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Neuer's Unexpected Return Possibility

Kompany hints at the possibility of Manuel Neuer making a surprise return to action following his rapid rehabilitation from a calf injury. The veteran goalkeeper's potential comeback could significantly bolster Bayern's defensive capabilities for the crucial match against Borussia Dortmund.

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Kompany's Optimistic Assessment

Kompany expresses optimism about Neuer's progress, mentioning that the captain might even participate in training ahead of the fixture. The manager's positive outlook provides hope for Bayern fans eager to see their star goalkeeper back in action.

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Contingency Plans and Urbig's Preparedness

In the event of Neuer not being deemed fit for the match, Kompany reveals that backup goalkeeper Jonas Urbig is ready to step in. Despite Neuer's potential absence, the coach exhibits faith in the young goalkeeper's abilities to perform under pressure.

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Intense Build-Up to Der Klassiker

As the excitement builds for the highly anticipated clash, Kompany acknowledges the significance of the upcoming match against Borussia Dortmund, emphasizing the competitive edge and determination shown by his players during the preparation. The manager's focus remains on Bayern's readiness and mindset going into this critical fixture.

Published on Feb 27, 2026
Vincent Kompany's Surprise Update on Manuel Neuer's Rapid Recovery and Bayern's Clash with Borussia Dortmund | Viprow Soccer | viprow Soccer Network