Necessity calls: Bayern's 37-year-old "special ops man" has to step up again
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 11.03.26. | 23:16
With the first two custodians sidelined for injuries, in the following games, the Bavarians will have to rely on the super-experienced Sven Ulreich, who made his last appearance in September 2024
It's that time of year when Bayern Munich urgently and desperately need Sven Ulreich. Like a spare lightbulb you forget about, but once the one in use burns out, you need it, or you'll stay in the dark.
Jokes aside, with Manuel Neuer out of the picture since mid-February due to his muscle fiber tear, his understudy Jonas Urbig took his spot between the posts.
However, in the final seconds of the Bavarians' last night's Champions League 6-1 win over Atalanta - in an action that brought a consolation goal to the Italian side - the 22-year-old collided with the rivals' striker Nikola Krstovic and injured his head.
Bayern's sporting director, Max Eberl, confirmed after the game that the keeper was dazed and experiencing headaches, while the club's CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen hinted at a concussion, speaking to BILD.
"Jonas Urbig is currently in the hospital, undergoing imaging. A concussion is suspected," he said.
Hence, the youngster isn't expected to be at Vincent Kompany's disposal for at least 8-10 days, meaning that Ulreich will need to step up.
Bayern Munich Jonas Urbig is expected to be out for 8-10 days following his head injury, likely to miss Leverkusen and Atalanta. Sven Ulreich will be in goal [@itstheicebird] pic.twitter.com/oxyyDjmiMl
— Football News Headlines (@footballheadlyn) March 11, 2026
The 37-year-old has spent 10 years with the Munich side across two spells, making 103 appearances. However, given his "emergency status", he hasn't played much recently.
Last season, he made only two appearances, and has yet to debut in the current campaign. Based on the circumstances, it could happen in three days, when Bayern face Bayer Leverkusen on the road, while he is expected in the XI for the return leg against Atalanta as well, with his understudy most likely being the 16-year-old Leonard Prescott.
Ulreich's lack of playing time could represent a problem for the team, as he hasn't clocked a single minute on the pitch since September 21, 2024, and the Bundesliga match against Werder Bremen. Nevertheless, he is experienced enough to cope with the situation.
Last July, the Bavarians extended Ulreich's contract until June 2026, and many were stunned by the move, wondering why. Now they've got their answer.