Manuel Neuer suffered a leg fracture while on a skiing tour, the Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper said, ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Neuer, 36, featured for Germany at the World Cup in Qatar but the four-time winners suffered an embarrassing early exit in the group stage.
He posted on Instagram: “What can I say, the end of the year could have definitely gone better … While I was trying to get my head clear while ski touring, I suffered a lower leg fracture.
“Yesterday’s surgery went well. Many thanks to the doctors! However, it hurts to know that the current season is over for me.”
The news comes as a blow to Bayern Munich, who return to Bundesliga action against RB Leipzig on Jan. 20. Sven Ulreich is likely to deputise for Neuer, with Bayern four points clear at the top of the table.
