Pressure builds on Neuer after mixed display in London

November 30, 2025 Oliver Obel

Arsenal’s breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute from a corner that immediately stirred debate. According to Sky Sports’ coverage, Neuer appeared to be nudged as he moved to claim the delivery, which left him unable to challenge for the ball before it dropped to Jurrien Timber. The defender finished from close range while Bayern’s appeals for a foul went unanswered by both the referee and VAR.

Lennart Karl briefly restored parity with a composed finish, but Bayern’s rhythm never fully settled. Arsenal maintained the urgency that kept the home crowd energized, and their second goal reflected that momentum.

Noni Madueke finished a sweeping move in the 69th minute to restore the advantage for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Martinelli’s strike decides the match

The moment that effectively sealed the result came only eight minutes later. UEFA’s match data showed a loose ball slipping behind the Bayern back line, prompting Neuer to sprint off his line in an attempt to sweep up the danger.

Gabriel Martinelli reacted faster, reached the ball first and slid in Arsenal’s third. The Emirates erupted as Bayern’s bench slumped, recognising the significance of the mistake.

It was the type of play Neuer has executed successfully throughout his career, but this time the timing was off.

Kahn offers mixed verdict

Speaking to Sky Germany after the match, Oliver Kahn defended Neuer on the controversial opener but was far more blunt regarding the third goal.

On the corner incident, Kahn said, “As a goalkeeper, you're focused on the player taking the corner. That means you can't see what's happening behind you,” adding that “even the slightest nudge” can disrupt a keeper’s coordination.

He referred to the contact as a “disguised attack” and argued that VAR should have recommended a foul.

When asked about Martinelli’s goal, Kahn did not hesitate. “Was that a mistake, yes or no? Yes, if that's how you want to see it, then it was a mistake.” He noted that Neuer’s decision to rush out left him in a vulnerable position.

Bayern’s broader issues resurface

Beyond the scrutiny on Neuer, Bayern’s overall performance raised its own concerns. Despite enjoying 55 percent possession according to UEFA statistics, they created only two shots on target and often looked blunt in the final third.

Arsenal, by contrast, were more incisive on transitions and produced eight shots on target, a disparity that highlighted Bayern’s ongoing struggle to turn control of the ball into sustained pressure.

Manager Vincent Kompany, who has asked for patience as the squad adapts to a more possession-heavy style, showed visible frustration on the touchline.

With Bayern now level on 12 points with Inter Milan, their remaining group-stage fixtures will play a crucial role in securing a favourable position for the knockout rounds.

What comes next

Bayern now return their focus to domestic competition with a Bundesliga trip to St. Pauli on Saturday. A DFB-Pokal round-of-16 meeting with Union Berlin follows on December 4. Neuer is expected to keep his place in goal, though discussion around his recent form is unlikely to fade quickly after a difficult night in London.

Sources: Sky Sports, Sky Germany, UEFA match data