Neuer surpasses Müller and Messi: Champions League record in Madrid

Bayern captain Manuel Neuer broke the German record for the most appearances on Tuesday evening in Madrid with his 164th Champions League appearance. The 40‑year‑old goalkeeper, who made his debut in September 2007 for Schalke, set the benchmark against Atlético Madrid and thereby opened a new chapter in the club’s history.

Neuer sets German Champions League record

With his 164th appearance he overtook club icon and World Cup teammate Thomas Müller as well as superstar Lionel Messi. “I knew I was level with Thomas and with Messi. I can’t help that they switched so early,” Neuer said after the match with a grin.

Other German legends at a glance

Thomas Müller has been playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps in the North American MLS since last year, while Lionel Messi continues to be active for champions Inter Miami. In the list of German professionals with the most Champions League appearances, behind Neuer and Müller, a third place is occupied by another former Bayern player: Toni Kroos.

Neuer overtakes Müller and Messi in Champions League appearance tally

Kroos played the majority of his 151 Champions League matches for Real Madrid rather than for Munich. With the Spaniards he won the title five times, with Bayern once. Neuer and Müller have won the Henkelpott twice.

The international record for appearances is unlikely to be broken by the goalkeeper who may retire this summer. It is still held by Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo with 183 appearances for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus Turin. In second place is former Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas with 177 games for Real Madrid and FC Porto. Neuer, who also featured for Schalke 04 in the “Königsklasse”, is in third place – ahead of Müller and Lionel Messi, who has played 163 matches for FC Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain.

Manuel Neuer breaks Müller record, ranks third in Champions League