Manuel Neuer: "Dortmund were better on the day"

Several German internationals made their competitive return from their World Cup triumph in Brazil at this week’s DFL Supercup – including the best goalkeeper at this summer’s tournament. However, a 2-0 defeat by last season’s Bundesliga runners-up Borussia Dortmund was not what Manuel Neuer envisaged on his return for double winners Bayern Munich.

After the match, Neuer spoke to DFB.de about the defeat, its effects on the new season, the forthcoming cup match against Preußen Münster, BVB and the serious injury to defender Javier Martínez.

Question: Mr Neuer, what does this Supercup defeat mean for Bayern’s cup match against Preußen Münster on Sunday (live on Sky from 16:00 CET)?

Manuel Neuer: Sunday is the first round of the cup for us, plus I know hard it is to win in Münster. I don’t think everyone realises that as some of our squad haven’t played there before. That’s why I wanted to play in the Supercup no matter what, to prepare for a cauldron like that.

Question: What experience do you have of Münster?

Neuer: I’m a Westphalian so I used to play there regularly – not at the Preußen Stadium but against Münster – so I know how many good footballers come from the city. We’ve seen how well Münster have performed in the cup in recent years, and they’ve beaten a couple of good sides. That’s why we’ve got to be cautious.

Question: How concerned are you about this Supercup defeat?

Neuer: There were three players who were in the World Cup squad, but all the other players have completed pre-season training. We would have liked to win but unfortunately Dortmund were simply better on the day.

Question: Where exactly did that show on the pitch?

Neuer: They were more robust and they attacked and advanced towards us well. We struggled to play out of defence, and with 21 shots on goal compared to our four, you’ve got to say that Dortmund completely deserved to win.

Question: Does the disappointment of a potentially long layoff for Javier Martínez outweigh the defeat?

Neuer: Of course, something like that would be a disaster for us in the long term, but we don’t yet know exactly what happened so I don’t want to paint too gloomy a picture. Right now we just wish him all the best.

Question: You would presumably have to adopt a new defensive approach if Martínez is not available to form the centre of Munich’s back three.

Neuer: Perhaps, but Jérôme Boateng or Dante can play that role too. Holger Badstuber is also on his way back, and although he still needs a little more time to get back to full fitness, he’ll certainly get a run-out from time to time. When it comes to a back three, we’re well stocked with defenders.

Question: Do you worry that starting a new season could be problematic after winning the World Cup?

Neuer: No!

(as told to DFB.de)