Neuer on Coming Out to Midfield: "We Had to Take More Risks at That Point in the Game"

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer revealed the reason for his decision to come out to midfield during Arsenal's third goal against his team yesterday, in the fifth round of the UEFA Champions League group stage.

After the match, Neuer stated: “We had to take more risks at that moment in the game. The pass was good, and it wasn't too long.”

He added: “I saw Martinelli running towards Kimmich. He is a bit faster than him, so it would have been a one-on-one situation and a big chance. I tried to anticipate it, but he (Martinelli) touched the ball, and in the end, I wasn't in the right place.”

Regarding whether he was at fault for the first goal, Neuer replied: “He unbalanced me, so I was in a different position than I wanted to be. We know how they deal with set pieces, and I think the referees know that too. But generally, we must continue to play until the referee blows his whistle. Nevertheless, I am not receiving any criticism from my side.”