Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer out for the season after ski trip injury

By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp

ANKARA (AA) - Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer has been ruled out of the season due to a leg injury while skiing, the German club announced on Saturday.

"Manuel Neuer, 36, will not be available to FC Bayern Munich for the rest of the season," a statement said.

"The news of Manuel's injury shocked us all. We will stand by him and support him on his way to his comeback," said CEO Oliver Kahn. "He will overcome this serious injury and return to the pitch as strong as before."

In an Instagram post, the 36-year-old goalkeeper said he suffered from a lower leg fracture while skiing, and had a surgery on Friday.

"What can I say, the end of the year could have definitely gone better... While I was trying to get my head clear while ski touring, I suffered a lower leg fracture. Yesterday's surgery went well. Many thanks to the doctors!" he said.

"However, it hurts to know that the current season is over for me," Neuer added in the post which also included a photo of him in a hospital bed.

Bayern Munich lead the Bundesliga by four points, and the league resumes on Jan. 20.