Bayern München calling up 5th reserve goalkeeper for Champions League return leg

March 17, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Bayern Munich head into the second leg of their Champions League tie against Atalanta with a strong aggregate lead, but their preparations have been dominated by mounting problems in goal.

According to the source text provided by the user, Captain Manuel Neuer is unavailable due to a calf tear, while Sven Ulreich has been ruled out with an adductor injury expected to sideline him for several weeks.

Jonas Urbig also emerged as a doubt after suffering a concussion during the first leg of the round of 16, further weakening Bayern’s options ahead of the return fixture at Allianz Arena.

Youth call-up under consideration

The situation became more complicated when young goalkeeper Leon Klanac was also reported injured with a thigh issue, leaving Bayern short of available senior and youth options.

According to the same source text, Bayern considered 16-year-old Leonard Prescott for involvement with the first team. Prescott, a 1.96m tall goalkeeper born in New York, is part of Germany’s U17 setup.

The report also noted that German youth labor regulations could potentially complicate a late-night appearance unless special permission is granted, although this detail remains unconfirmed by official club communication.

Urbig return eases concerns

There was some relief for Bayern on Monday when, according to the source text, Jonas Urbig returned to full training.

A video posted by FC Bayern München on their official account also showed Urbig back in team training, with the caption “Look who’s back in training 👀🧤”, reinforcing expectations that the 22-year-old goalkeeper could be available for selection against Atalanta.

He trained alongside Leonard Prescott and 19-year-old Jannis Bärtl, improving Bayern’s situation ahead of the match.

With Bayern holding a 6,1 lead from the first leg on March 10, the same report indicated that Urbig is now the most likely candidate to start in goal for the second leg.

Sirigu option raises questions

Another potential solution could lie outside the current squad, with experienced Italian goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu available as a free agent.

Sirigu brings significant top-level experience, including appearances in the Champions League, and could in theory be signed outside the transfer window, as free agents are permitted to join clubs at any time.

However, complications remain. Any new signing would need to be registered for the Champions League squad, which is typically not allowed outside official registration periods. While exceptions are rare, Bayern’s injury crisis could prompt internal discussions about whether a special case is worth exploring.

Strong lead changes the equation

Bayern’s dominant advantage from the first leg reduces the immediate pressure on whoever is selected in goal, allowing the coaching staff to prioritize fitness and availability over experience if needed.

Even so, the unusual number of injuries in one position highlights the lack of depth currently available and has forced the club to consider scenarios that would normally be unlikely at this stage of the competition.

Sources: Bayern München official channels