Bayern Munich find themselves in a very unusual situation up front with all four of their senior goalkeepers injured.
Bayern’s third-choice goalkeeper Sven Ulreich came into action in the weekend’s 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Bayer Leverkusen, replacing Manuel Neuer (calf strain) and Jonas Urbig (concussion). Unfortunately, Ulreich suffered a torn muscle band during the game and Bild reported that he could be out for six weeks.
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Meanwhile, 19-year-old fourth goalkeeper Leon Kranak is sidelined with a thigh injury, opening the door for 16-year-old Leonard Prescott to make his Bayern debut in the German Champions League against Atalanta in Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg.
Jonas Urbig suffered a concussion in the first round and will be evaluated shortly before the game. Considering Bayern were 6-1 ahead from the first leg, it’s unlikely they would risk him if he wasn’t fully fit. This gives Prescott a real opportunity to play, and according to Kicker, the coaching staff has full confidence in him.
Who is Leonard Prescott?
Prescott, a New York-born dual national, began his youth career at Union Berlin before joining Bayern’s youth academy in 2023.
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Since then, he has played 16 times for the Bayern U19 team, including 4 times in the UEFA Youth League.
He also made six appearances for Germany’s youth teams, participating in three U17 and three U16 matches.
Prescott was first called up to Bayern’s first team in the first leg against Atalanta and came on as a substitute against Bayer Leverkusen at the weekend.
The 16-year-old earned high praise from Bayern U19 coach Peter Gaidarov, who previously said:
“He’s got great skills – you feel like he can play the outfield. He’s got some really brave moves and is definitely very advanced for his age.”
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Interestingly, Prescott had previously worked as a ballboy at the Allianz Arena, stationed behind Neuer’s goal to study his idol’s skills. Now, he might have the perfect opportunity to do it himself.
