Alexander Nubel bids farewell to Stuttgart as Bayern Munich return sparks fresh goalkeeper dilemma

The 29-year-old goalkeeper, who recently earned a place in Germany's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaves Stuttgart after establishing himself as one of the club's key figures during a highly successful period. Nubel initially joined on loan in 2023 before extending his stay for a further two seasons after signing a new Bayern contract in 2024.

During his time at the MHP Arena, Nubel made 129 appearances in all competitions, kept 38 clean sheets and played a major role in Stuttgart qualifying for European football in three consecutive seasons. He also helped the club win the 2025 DFB Cup and featured in memorable UEFA Champions League and Europa League campaigns.

Stuttgart sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth praised both the goalkeeper's performances and influence within the squad.

"Alexander Nubel has set standards over the last three years, both on and off the pitch," Wohlgemuth said.

"Alex could always be relied upon, and VfB's positive development, culminating in a third successive year of European football, owes a great deal to him."

Nubel also reflected warmly on his spell with the Bundesliga side.

"It was a sensational time at VfB Stuttgart in every respect," he said.

"My family and I had three wonderful years in Stuttgart, and I felt right at home from day one. The team and the fans showed me so much appreciation and respect, which I'm very grateful for.

"It was a very successful time on the pitch too. We qualified for Europe on three occasions, experienced unforgettable evenings in the Champions League and Europa League, and celebrated a very special moment with the DFB Cup victory."

Despite returning to Bayern, Nubel's future in Munich appears uncertain. The Bundesliga champions are reportedly open to selling the goalkeeper at the end of the season as they continue to reshape their squad and reduce wage costs. Nubel, whose contract runs until 2029, is said to earn around 11 million euros per year, with Bayern believed to value him at between 20 million euros and 25 million euros.

Any hopes of becoming Bayern's first-choice goalkeeper have also been complicated by Manuel Neuer signing a new contract, while highly-rated youngster Jonas Urbig is viewed as the long-term successor.

Back in Stuttgart, attention is already turning toward who could replace Nubel between the posts. Highly-rated 20-year-old Dennis Seimen is regarded as the leading in-house candidate after impressing during a loan spell at SC Paderborn, where he helped the club secure promotion to the Bundesliga.

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