Schmeichel Reveals Near Move to Bayern Ahead of Champions League Clash

MUNICH, Germany — Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel confirmed on Monday that he was close to joining Bayern Munich following Manuel Neuer‘s injury during the Qatar 2022 World Cup. With Neuer sidelined, Schmeichel was in discussions with Bayern about a potential transfer, which he described as a dream opportunity.

“Yes, that’s correct, there were discussions about me joining Bayern. It was after Manuel Neuer got his injury at the World Cup a couple of years ago,” Schmeichel said at a pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern. “Basically, everything was kind of agreed, and it just fell through at the last second. You would have to ask Bayern what the problem was. I’m not 100% sure what happened, but I was kind of on my way to the airport. Unfortunately, it didn’t materialize.”

During that time, Bayern secured Yann Sommer as Neuer’s replacement, leaving Schmeichel to continue his career at OGC Nice before eventually signing with Celtic. Reflecting on the failed move, Schmeichel said it would have been a dream come true to represent a club with such a rich history. “To have played for a club of this stature would have been more than enough. I said: ‘Send the contract!’ I don’t even need to know what it is. I’ll sign it anyway,” he added.

Now with Celtic, Schmeichel expressed gratitude for his current situation and the journey that led him to Glasgow. “Everything happens for a reason. I’m very happy with where it’s brought me now. Sometimes life works in funny ways. I’m delighted to now be with Celtic,” he said. He noted that his grandfather loved German football and always spoke highly of Bayern Munich.

As the upcoming match against Bayern approaches, Schmeichel is hopeful for an upset against the Bavarian giants, although he recognizes the challenge ahead. Celtic lost the first leg 2-1 at home, and Schmeichel will need to be at his best against a team he’s admired since his youth. “I always try to learn from him, and I really enjoy watching him,” Schmeichel said, referring to Neuer’s influence on his own career.

“It’s great to play against them, but it would be even greater if we could pull off something,” he added. Schmeichel’s performance will be critical as Celtic seeks to advance against the formidable Bayern Munich squad.