By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League has sparked a good mood at Bayern Munich.
But the feel-good atmosphere has been made even better by other positive news.
French winger Franck Ribery has extended his contract until 2019.
Dutch counterpart, 34-year-old Arjen Robben is expected to follow soon. "Everything can happen, but talks are just around the corner," Robben commented.
Bayern has demanded that both Ribery and Robben accept "part time work" in their last year as the club intends to rejuvenate its squad.
Germany's biggest striking talent Fiete Arp, announced he would be joining the Bavarians next season.
The 18-year-old said he would leave Hamburger SV should the team get relegated, a likely event this season.
22-year-old Serge Gnabry told German media he will return to Munich after being loaned out to TSG Hoffenheim.
It also seems like goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is expected to return to action in time for Bayern's final games of the season.
"I'm positive about Manuel's return this season," said Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes. According to the 72-year-old, Neuer's fitness is "highly pleasing" as the German international goalkeeper's injury has healed up completely.
Neuer has been sidelined with a broken bone in his foot since September 2017. "We won't rush things as we don't intend to take any risks. The load will be increased step by step," Heynckes stated.
After several months of rehab, Neuer began some aspects of regular training two weeks ago. The injured foot is said to be stable and is not causing any problems.
Neuer is aiming for a quick return to get in shape not only for Bayern's final matches but also for the 2018 World Cup with the German team.
Heynckes and German national coach Joachim Loew said it is vital that Neuer gets match practice ahead of the World Cup.
According to German media reports, Heynckes will have to make a hard decision should Bayern reach the Champions League final in Kiev on May 26 as Neuer's replacement Sven Ulreich might have to return to the bench.
When it comes to predictions, Bayern is said to be the strongest team next to big favorites Real Madrid although the underdogs Liverpool and Roma could well cause further major upsets.
