Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has said he shares duties with coach Pep Guardiola, explaining: “He orchestrates our attacks, and I our defence.”
Neuer, 29, said his role under Guardiola was different to that under predecessor Jupp Heynckes, meaning that “we as a team no longer understand it as 10 plus one but as 11 players in the buildup play.
“Our system changes throughout the season, sometimes even in a match,” he explained. “When we play with three at the back, I have other tasks, need to make other runs than when we play with a back four including two full-backs. Those are the details I pay careful attention to.”
Neuer said the way Guardiola saw the game meant he is “almost playing himself,” adding: “He is vigilant and always tries to help. That’s also my job, only in defence.
“He finds solutions to finish the attack and create chances. He’s always on the ball, and I am the one trying to maintain order in transition play and in defence.”
Neuer attracted acclaim for his performances in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph, when he showcased his skills as a “sweeper keeper,” making several runs and interventions outside his area in the match against Algeria.