Berlin: Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is set to make his German league debut for Bayern Munich on Sunday against Borussia Moenchengladbach, despite complaining of an upset stomach, the club has said.
The 25-year-old, who Bayern signed for 22 million euros (31.44m US dollars) during the summer from arch-rivals Schalke 04, withdrew from training on Friday with gastro-intestinal problems.
But he is expected to be fit to face Borussia Moenchengladbach in Bayern's opening league game of the season on Sunday at Munich's Allianz Arena.
"I am sure he will play," Bayern president Uli Hoeness told Sky television, while reserve goalkeeper Jurg Butt also missed training with a stomach complaint.
Coach Jupp Heynckes has said he will only decide whether to play wingers Franck Ribery of France and Dutch star Arjen Robben shortly before kick-off as both only returned to training on Thursday after ankle knocks.
Bayern last won the Bundesliga in 2010 and for captain Philipp Lahm, it is crucial they start with a win against last season relegation contenders 'Gladbach.
"Sunday is when the fun begins. Everyone is ready for it," said Lahm.
"It is important we are at the top (of the league) from the beginning.
"Over the past two years, we have been running around chasing the title, that cost us a lot of strength.
"We can't allow that to happen this time, we have the team and the confidence to be able to start from the top."
Bureau Report
First Published: Saturday, August 06, 2011, 22:30