Berlin [Germany], February 4: Manuel Neuer may have his hands full with Bayern Munich, but the goalkeeper's influence is being felt beyond football, including by Germany's ice hockey team ahead of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
"I often watch his games, especially his angle play, because every goalkeeper can benefit from his movements and solutions when facing a striker coming from both sides at a sharp angle," said Germany goalkeeper Philipp Grubauer, who plays for NHL side Seattle Kraken.
With NHL players taking part for the first time since 2014, "we are ahead of a thrilling tournament," the 34-year-old said, adding that he is expecting the "fastest play" ever seen at the Olympics.
"We have the best German team ever, thanks to our NHL players, but the others also rely on the experience of the best hockey league," the Bavarian-born player said.
After Germany won silver at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games, 2018 Stanley Cup winner Grubauer is aiming to repeat that success eight years later. In 2018, he watched the tournament on television.
Alongside Canada, Sweden and the United States, Finland, the 2022 Beijing Games gold medalists, are mentioned as favorites.
"We practically have all NHL stars around. When did that happen before? Never," he said.
Grubauer said the Olympic tournament requires particular preparation, "as I, as a goalkeeper, can benefit from other sports goalies," he said.
Aside from angle play solutions, it is also about "keeping the game flow running by quick and on-target passing." Striving for perfection, with other sports as a role model, has become a crucial part of his ice hockey and daily training routines.
Facing Denmark, Latvia and the United States in their group, the team led by German-Canadian Harold Kreis includes nine NHL players, with Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl serving as their star player.
Grubauer said the significance of the Olympic Games has increased over the past decade, and NHL players in 2026 feel a unique sense of responsibility.
"It's our responsibility to showcase our sport at its best," he said.
Source: Qatar Tribune
