By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- It took Vincent Kompany a moment to work out who was older, him or Manuel Neuer.
The Bayern Munich coach laughed when he learned his goalkeeper is exactly 14 days his senior, but the future of the 2014 World Cup winner and two-time Champions League titleholder remains unresolved.
Neuer is preparing for his 157th UEFA Champions League appearance on Wednesday against Union Saint-Gilloise - an unusual scenario for Vincent Kompany, who finds himself coaching a player slightly older than he is.
"We talked about the age thing the other day," Kompany said, adding that he remains impressed by Neuer's drive. "His ambition seems as high as ever."
Kompany said he would be happy to continue working with Manuel Neuer for at least another season, but echoed the club's position that the decision ultimately rests with the player. Neuer's contract expires next summer.
The goalkeeper recently made his 584th appearance for Bayern Munich, matching the club record set by Franz Beckenbauer. He has asked for patience and said he will not decide on his future before turning 40 on March 27.
"We will give him all the time he needs," Kompany said.
Sporting director Max Eberl suggested his instinct is that Neuer will extend his stay. "He is still world class, even after all these years," Eberl said, describing Neuer's mindset as a balance between the desire to continue and the fear of staying beyond his peak.
Bayern's long-term successor appears to be 22-year-old Jonas Urbig, but questions remain over whether the transition can happen smoothly or if another season under Neuer's guidance would be beneficial.
Neuer's form in recent months has only fueled speculation about a contract extension and even a potential return to the national team for the 2026 World Cup. Former Germany captain Lothar Matthaus recently highlighted Neuer's presence as a psychological factor for opponents.
"Strikers think about it when they see him in the box," Matthaus said.
Neuer said he is still weighing his options and occasionally reflects in the garden of his home near Tegernsee. Eberl indicated a decision could come in April or May.
For now, Neuer insists his focus is solely on the season ahead, hinting that success, including a possible Champions League run, could influence what comes next.
While the uncertainty continues, Kompany said Neuer's influence remains immense.
"I'm already a bit afraid of the moment he says goodbye," Kompany said. "What he's doing at this age is exceptional. To reach this level at 40 is something truly unique." ■
