FC Bayern was on tenterhooks for a long time leading up to the match against FC Arsenal regarding goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who had missed the record champion’s last two games due to a foot injury. 

However, Bayern’s number one was able to participate in the final training session on Tuesday and finally gave the green light on Wednesday regarding his availability.

For the goalkeeper, this is a very special game. By starting the match, he will set an all-time record and tie Thomas Müller’s mark.

Neuer Reaches a Special Milestone

This will be Neuer’s 163rd Champions League match. With this, he now shares the record for the most appearances by a German player in the Champions League with his former teammate.

Only Iker Casillas (177) and Cristiano Ronaldo (183) have played in more Champions League matches. Incidentally, Barça legend Lionel Messi is tied with Neuer and Müller.

Before the match against Arsenal, Neuer was asked by DAZN upon the team’s arrival whether he was 100% fit again.

“I hope everything goes well. But with Jonas Urbig, we can all keep our cool—we all know what he’s capable of. Still, when you’re injured, you want to come back as soon as possible and help the team again, especially in a game like this,” said Neuer.

Meanwhile, there’s immense respect for the opponent: “I think Arsenal is the strongest opponent we’ll face at home. They’re obviously among the favorites, so it’s important that we win this game. Arsenal is very disciplined. They’re dangerous on set pieces and transition quickly. But we also have a very good team. We know that some players won’t be available, but we have every chance and want to win the game.”

Neuer now has the chance to cap off his exceptional performance with a special game against a very strong opponent.

This article was translated into English by AI. You can read the original version here https://fcbinside.de/2026/10/21/meilenstein-gegen-arsenal-neuer-mit-champions-league-bestmarke/.