Discussions and statements are taking place regarding the possibility of Manuel Neuer returning to Schalke. In a BILD interview, Schalke's supervisory board chairman Axel Hefer stated that Neuer's departure was controversial, and also that he believes everyone can make mistakes when young. Hefer added that Neuer should decide for himself where he wants to work in the future. Schalke's sporting director Frank Baumann told BILD that involving former players like Neuer is interesting due to their qualifications and passion. Baumann responded affirmatively to the suggestion of offering Neuer a job at Schalke, while also noting it would not be easy to find a solution. Neuer's management referred to his statements after a match, in which Neuer told DAZN he feels a connection to Schalke and Gelsenkirchen but also feels at home in Bayern and Munich. It is mentioned that discussions at Schalke would not fail. Bayern, through Herbert Hainer, has also expressed an intention to keep Neuer at the club in some capacity.

Schalke supervisory board chairman Axel Hefer told Bild that he is open to Manuel Neuer returning to the club in any function. The 40-year-old German goalkeeper, who has suggested it might be his last season, was set to play against Schalke, the club where his career started. Hefer does not expect Neuer to want to start a new working life immediately after his playing career, but said Schalke would be open for him when he is ready. Hefer also stated that while Neuer's departure was controversial, he personally feels everyone can make mistakes, especially when young, and that it should be moved on from at some point. The German international has 128 caps for his country and his current market value is €4.00m, according to Transfermarkt.