Bayern Munich seek special permit as injury crisis deepens

March 18, 2026 Oliver Obel

Bayern Munich may have to rely on a 16-year-old goalkeeper in Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg against Atalanta, as injuries leave the club short of senior options and raise an unusual legal question.

Despite carrying a 6-1 advantage from the first leg in Bergamo, Bayern’s preparations have been disrupted by a growing goalkeeping crisis.

Manuel Neuer remains unavailable with a muscle injury, while Jonas Urbig sat out the recent draw with Bayer Leverkusen due to a suspected concussion. Sven Ulreich, who stepped in for that match, has since been ruled out with a torn adductor muscle.

German outlet Sport1 reported that Urbig returned to training on Monday, but any comeback would depend on clearance under UEFA’s concussion protocols, which require approval from both a team doctor and an independent neurological specialist.

With Leon Klanac also sidelined, Bayern’s depth has been stretched to the point where academy goalkeeper Leonard Prescott is now under consideration. The 16-year-old, who was named on the bench at the weekend, could become the youngest starting goalkeeper in Champions League history if selected.

His potential involvement, however, is complicated by German labor regulations. Under youth employment rules, individuals under 18 are generally not permitted to work past 8 p.m., although exemptions for professional athletes can extend that limit to 11 p.m.

That framework has prompted Bayern to explore additional clearance. Journalist Jose I. Araoz reported that the club is seeking a special permit to ensure Prescott would be eligible to play the full match if required, including extra time and penalties. The same regulations would also require a minimum rest period following his involvement.

Prescott has represented Germany at youth level and is regarded as one of Bayern’s emerging prospects, having already been included in senior matchday squads this season.

Bayern are expected to make a late decision on their goalkeeping options, with Urbig’s fitness likely to determine whether Prescott is called upon for a potential debut on Europe’s biggest stage.

Sources: Sport1, Jose I. Araoz, Bayern match reports