Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer faces a spell out after tearing his calf muscle, casting doubt on key upcoming fixtures.

MUNICH: Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer is set for a spell on the sidelines after tearing his calf muscle.

The 39-year-old goalkeeper was substituted at half-time during Saturday’s 3-0 win at Werder Bremen.

A club statement confirmed the injury, noting Neuer would be absent “for the time being” without specifying a duration.

Initial assessments after the match suggested the issue was minor, with sporting director Max Eberl calling it a “precautionary measure”.

However, a scan on Sunday revealed the tear was more serious than first expected.

German media reports indicate Neuer is a doubt for Bayern’s crucial trip to Borussia Dortmund at the end of February.

He is also expected to miss next Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.

The veteran has been plagued by recent calf problems, missing 10 matches last season with a similar issue.

His latest setback comes as Bayern restored a six-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga table.

Borussia Dortmund had closed the gap to just three points before Bayern’s weekend victory.

 The Sun Malaysia