Manuel Neuer, a goalkeeper for Bayern Munich and Germany, has disclosed that he has undergone three procedures for skin cancer on his face.
The 36-year-old claimed that his personal history of cancer was the motivation behind his choice to collaborate with fellow citizen and three-time Grand Slam tennis champion Angelique Kerber to launch a skincare range named “Newkee.”
“We both have a very personal history of skin diseases. In Angelique’s case it’s sun-related hyperpigmentation, and in my case it’s skin cancer on my face, which I’ve already had to have operated on three times,” Neuer said in a press release.
“That’s why we also took special care not to make any compromises when it comes to sun protection: Because I train outside all the time and also like to spend my free time in nature.”
The dates of these operations is still unknown, and Neuer had not previously reported the cancer diagnosis.
The German expects to be well in time for Bayern Munich’s final three matches before the World Cup. He has been sidelined since early October with a shoulder issue.