Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has shared the devastating news of the passing of his six-year-old son, Len.
The 36-year-old announced the tragic loss on Friday morning, revealing that Len passed away in June following a long battle with a serious illness. Len was born in November 2018.
In an emotional message posted on Instagram, Ulreich wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we would like to announce today that our son Len passed away a few weeks ago after a long, serious illness.
"The decision to share this publicly has been incredibly difficult for us, but it’s an important step as a family to bring clarity to our surroundings and to the public.
Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has shared the devastating news of the passing of his six-year-old son, Len
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"Together with our daughter, we are now taking small steps toward returning to life.
"We are deeply grateful to our families, friends, and FC Bayern Munich for their discretion and unwavering support over the past few months — it has meant the world to us.
"We kindly ask the public and media for understanding and to respect our privacy. Please refrain from further inquiries or statements."
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The message was signed off by the goalkeeper and his partner, Lisa.
Ulreich disabled comments on the post to maintain privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
Len was born three years after Ulreich joined Bayern Munich from VfB Stuttgart.
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The outpouring of support has been immense, with fans and the football community offering condolences and words of comfort. One supporter wrote, “I wish you and your family much strength and patience. May your son rest in peace.”
Another added: “Rest in peace. Sending love and strength in this unimaginably hard time.”
The tragic news comes just weeks after Ulreich signed a one-year contract extension with Bayern, where he continues to serve as the backup to club captain Manuel Neuer.
Since joining the Bavarian giants, Ulreich has made 103 competitive appearances.
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Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich serves as back-up to Manuel Neuer at the Bundesliga giants
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His trophy cabinet includes nine Bundesliga titles, three DFB Cups, six DFL Supercups, as well as Champions League and UEFA Super Cup triumphs.
Ulreich briefly departed the club in 2020 for a season with Hamburger SV before returning to Bayern Munich.