FC Bayern stars face uncertain future, major overhaul planned for 2026 | OneFootball

In the summer of 2026, several contracts of prominent players at FC Bayern are set to expire. Besides captain Manuel Neuer, this also affects Leon Goretzka, Serge Gnabry, and Dayot Upamecano. However, not all of them are likely to receive a new contract at Säbener Straße.

According to kicker, it is unlikely that all four players will extend their future in Munich. This could mean a major squad overhaul for Bayern in just under two years.

Interestingly, in the spring, the supervisory board set a clear directive: 20 percent less salary costs. Former CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge emphasized at the time that the problem for the club was not the transfer fees, but primarily the high player salaries. According to SPORT1 information, it is now clear: Bayern has exceeded the goal.

With the departures of top earners like Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané, and Kingsley Coman, the savings even amount to over 50 percent. A figure that satisfies the Munich management – and gives Eberl internal support.

At the same time, FCB signed players who received significantly more moderate financial contracts. According to SPORT1, Jonathan Tah, Luis Díaz, and Tom Bischof are well below the sums their prominent predecessors received.

Neuer in Top Form – But for How Long?

Captain Manuel Neuer continues to deliver world-class performances even at the advanced football age of 39. Since the Club World Cup at the latest, he has proven that he remains indispensable in Munich. Recently, there was even speculation about a comeback in the German national team, as Marc-André ter Stegen was injured again.

Record national player Lothar Matthäus clearly advocated in kicker for a World Cup nomination of the 2014 World Champion: “He and ter Stegen are our outstanding goalkeepers. The others are good, but not enough for the World Cup title.” However, national coach Julian Nagelsmann dismissed this and emphasized planning for a timely comeback of ter Stegen.

Despite everything, Munich is already considering the time after Neuer. With Jonas Urbig, a potential successor is already in the squad and could prospectively take over as number one.

Goretzka and Gnabry: Sale Candidates on Call

The situation is different for Leon Goretzka and Serge Gnabry. Both have repeatedly been considered sale candidates in the past, but a concrete departure never materialized. Under coach Vincent Kompany, both are currently set – also because the squad is thinly spread. However, their long-term future with the record champion is considered open.

Upamecano on Club Search

The biggest mystery currently surrounds Dayot Upamecano. After there was speculation about a contract extension, Bild media now report that the player's side is actively looking for a new club – especially in the Premier League. There, the center-back could receive high signing bonuses with a free transfer in summer 2026.

The summer of 2026 could become a decisive turning point for the record champion. While Neuer remains essentially indispensable with his form, Bayern could deliberately make a cut in the midfield and offense. For Upamecano, much points to a departure. What is clear is that the course for the future is being set this season – and the contract talks with these four stars could be crucial for FC Bayern's direction.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.