Bayern Munich face an unprecedented goalkeeper crisis that could see 16-year-old Leonard Prescott make his senior debut in Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg against Atalanta. The teenager may require special clearance from German labour authorities to play in the evening fixture. According to Bbc.com.
Bayern’s goalkeeper crisis forces Kompany into unprecedented youth gamble
Vincent Kompany’s squad has been decimated by a succession of goalkeeper injuries, leaving the Bayern coach with limited options for the crucial Champions League tie. Regular starter Manuel Neuer remains sidelined with a muscle tear, while third-choice Sven Ulreich picked up an adductor issue during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen.
The immediate concern centres on Jonas Urbig’s availability after the 22-year-old sustained concussion during Bayern’s commanding 6-1 victory in Italy last week. Kompany confirmed that Urbig trained normally on Tuesday, but emphasised that Wednesday’s team selection would depend entirely on medical clearance for the goalkeeper.
“If everything goes well then Urbig will be in goal. If not then we will have to find another solution,” Kompany explained. The Belgian coach’s contingency plan involves promoting Prescott, a German youth international who regularly features for Bayern’s under-19 team and has been named on the bench for their past two matches.
Prescott’s potential involvement presents unique logistical challenges, as the teenager requires special permission from German labour authorities to work during evening hours. The 16-year-old, who will not turn 17 until September, would become one of the youngest players ever to feature in the Champions League knockout stages.
Kompany expressed complete confidence in his young goalkeeper despite the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his potential debut. “He is very calm. Overall, we as a staff are also calm. If he plays tomorrow he will have our full backing,” the coach stated, adding that the teenager would receive comprehensive support from the entire squad.
