Bayern Signs Urbig Amid UEFA Format Changes

Bayern Munich has signed 21-year-old goalkeeper Jonas Urbig from Cologne, seen as a potential successor to Manuel Neuer, with a contract until 2029 and a transfer fee of up to €10 million. Urbig is considered one of Germany’s best young goalkeepers, and Bayern aims to develop him into a modern goalkeeper who can follow Neuer's aggressive style. This acquisition is part of Bayern's strategy to build for the future, alongside signing young talent Tom Bischof. The UEFA Champions League will see a new format for the 2024/25 season where only eight teams secure direct passage to the Round of 16, with the remaining eight spots determined through playoffs.