*This content was translated by AI.
German coaches and experts also took notice of the deep "love for Bayern Munich" among Korean football fans. A fan appeared who correctly recited even Manuel Neuer's (40) middle name, and a club legend who retired from active play 16 years ago received a warm welcome.
German outlet Sport1 reported on the 2nd (Korean time) that "Bayern Munich has begun its 2026 Summer Tour in South Korea and Hong Kong," adding that "fans at Jeju Airport recognized Neuer and reacted enthusiastically."
It further stated, "When 40-year-old Neuer appeared at Jeju Airport's arrival hall with a travel bag, waiting fans could not hide their excitement. They held up jerseys high to request autographs while loudly shouting Neuer's name," describing the on-site atmosphere.
There was also a scene that captured German media's attention: A Korean fan correctly recited Neuer's full name, including his middle name.
While generally known as "Manuel Neuer," at Jeju Airport, shouts of "Manuel Peter Neuer" echoed through the hall.
Sport1 described this as "an unusual fan shout from Korea," highlighting that "one Korean fan's action particularly drew attention. This fan knew even Neuer's middle name."
Neuer also responded to the Korean fans' warm welcome with active fan service, signing autographs and taking photos with them while fulfilling as many requests as possible.
Sport1 also explained that "Neuer set aside time to sign autographs for as many fans as possible."
During a meeting with Korean media, Neuer said, "Wherever our training or matches take place, if fans are there, we will go and sign autographs. We are very grateful for this welcome."
He also emphasized, "However, this tour is not only for the fans. The players are also preparing for the new season. This is important time for us as well."
Kim Min-jae, a key defender for the South Korean national team, also received tremendous cheers. Kim Min-jae carefully provided fan service by signing autographs for each of the fans who waited for him.
Korean fans' interest was not limited to active stars like Neuer and Kim Min-jae. Bayern Munich's legendary strikers Roy Makaay and Giovane Elber also enjoyed a warm reception at Jeju Airport.
Dutch striker Makaay was an elite goal-scorer during his playing career. He won the Spanish La Liga top scorer title with Deportivo La Coruña and wore the Munich jersey from 2003 to 2007.
In the 2004-2005 season, he scored 22 goals in the league, finishing second in the scoring category. With Munich, he experienced Bundesliga and German Football Association (DFB) Cup titles twice each.
Makaay retired in 2010, while Brazilian striker Elber ended his career in 2007. Although both players have been retired for nearly 20 years, Korean fans have not forgotten these legends.
Sport1 reported that "not only Neuer and his teammates but also club legends Elber and Makaay enjoyed great popularity," adding that "the two signed autographs for Korean fans after arrival and took photos with them."
The Munich squad, led by coach Vincent Kompany, arrived at Jeju International Airport on the 2nd.
Munich will play a pre-season friendly match against K League 1's Jeju SK at Jeju World Cup Stadium at 8 p.m. on the 4th. This match was arranged as part of the "R&G Partnership" involving Jeju, Munich, and Major League Soccer (MLS) club LAFC from the United States.
Munich's visit to Korea comes two years after 2024. Although some key players were absent, Korean fans' enthusiasm remained intense.
Earlier, Munich announced a roster of 26 players for the Jeju match. The list included Kim Min-jae, captain Neuer, Jonathan Tah, Josip Stanisic, Joshua Kimmich, Luis Diaz, and Konrad Laimer.
On the other hand, players taking vacation after the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup in North America were excluded from the Korea tour roster. Striker Harry Kane, along with Michael Olise and Dayot Upamecano, did not join this tour.
Moroccan striker Ismaila Sarr, who joined Munich for a transfer fee of 50 million euros (approximately 83 billion won) this summer, remained in Germany due to injury. Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala are currently undergoing rehabilitation schedules.
Although there were concerns that the tour's excitement might diminish due to the absence of some superstars, Korean fans warmly welcomed the entire Munich squad, from active players to retired club legends.
After playing a friendly match in Jeju, Munich will move on to Hong Kong and continue its Asia tour schedule.
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*This content was translated by AI.
