Neuer will leave Schalke: not renewing his contract

Apr 21, 2011 18:29



Gelsenkirchen - Following months of speculation, FC Schalke 04 goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has announced he will not be extending his current contract, set to expire on 30 June 2012.

The 25-year-old informed club officials of his decision in person over the past few days.

Looking for a change

"I made this decision without any outside influences. All the recent speculation is completely unfounded," said Neuer.

"The decision has nothing to do with the change in coach or anyone at other clubs. I have plenty to thank Schalke and its wonderful fans for. However, after 20 years of loyalty to the club, I would like to keep my options open for a change."

Focus on remaining games

Schalke board member Horst Heldt confirmed: "We took the news with a heavy heart but we have to accept and respect it." Schalke face an exciting conclusion to the season, with a Champions League semi-final against Manchester United and the DFB Cup final against MSV Duisburg still to come.

"That's the focus for us at the moment. What happens with Manuel Neuer will all become clear over the coming weeks or even months. We're only concerned with our sporting tasks at the moment. Everything else will become clear at a later date."

Manuel Neuer himself added: "I made this decision and wanted to announce it, but now we need to concentrate fully on FC Schalke 04's targets for the current season. Like Horst Heldt, I believe calm is necessary in order to be as successful as possible in our upcoming matches."

Source: Bundesliga.de

news, schalke 04, press conference

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